Ron Silver, Actor & 9/11 Republican, Dies

On Sunday, Ron Silver--the actor best known for his portrayal of Alan Dershowitz in the 1990 film Reversal of Fortune and a recurring role on The West Wing--passed away after a two-year battle with esophageal cancer. He was 62.

Not only an actor, Mr. Silver was a staunch Democrat (as evidenced by his political contributions) who surprised many by switching parties after the World Trade Center Attacks, calling himself a "9/11 Rebublican."

Speaking at the 2004 Republican National Convention, he said, "Under the unwavering leadership of President Bush, the cause of freedom and democracy is being advanced by the courageous men and women serving in our armed services... The president is doing exactly the right thing. That is why we need this president at this time."

He even took aim at liberal Michael Moore by narrating a "Fahrenheit 9/11" parody called "Fahrenhype 9/11," a film that attempted to expose half-truths and falsehoods in the award-winning documentary.

Appointed for a few positions by President George W. Bush (including the advisory board for the Lewis "Scooter" Libby Legal Defense Trust), Mr. Silver also helmed the Actor's Equity Association.

In a 1991 AP interview, he said that civic involvement is a necessity for entertainers. "Many of us are very well compensated for work which a lot of people would love to do. And we also have a lot of leisure time in between jobs."

His family is organizing a private service.

B. Brandon Barker can also be found here.