Randal Malone, 66, Dies; ‘Singled Out’ Star and Council President

In a town where everyone’s vying for their 15 minutes of fame, Randal Malone managed to stretch his into a lifetime of service. While Hollywood often gets a bad rap for its self-indulgence, Malone’s story reminds us that even in Tinseltown, there are those who dedicate themselves to causes greater than their own stardom. So, before you roll your eyes at another Hollywood obituary, let’s take a moment to appreciate a man who used his platform for more than just self-promotion.

A Life in the Spotlight

Randal Malone’s journey to Hollywood stardom began in the bluegrass state of Kentucky. Born on May 29, 1958, in Owensboro, Malone’s interest in show business was sparked by his father’s connections with performers at racetracks. This early exposure set the stage for a career that would span decades and touch countless lives.

At the tender age of 13, Malone landed an uncredited role in “The Marshall of Windy Hollow” (1972), marking his first foray into the world of film. After earning a bachelor’s degree in theater from Murray State University, he honed his craft touring with theater companies and even had stints on Broadway before making the leap to Los Angeles in the late 1980s.

Malone’s big break came when he landed the role of a “film star” on MTV’s popular 1990s dating game show “Singled Out.” This exposure catapulted him into the public eye and led to appearances in over 50 films, many in the horror genre or straight-to-video releases.

A Champion for the Industry

While Malone’s on-screen career was notable, it was his work behind the scenes that truly set him apart. As president of The Southern California Motion Picture Council, Malone dedicated himself to preserving and promoting the film industry he loved so dearly.

Randal Malone, an actor and president of The Southern California Motion Picture Council, died at 66 on July 28 at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Los Angeles from kidney disease.

One of Malone’s most significant contributions was his collaboration with Johnny Grant, the late “Mayor of Hollywood,” to secure stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This work ensured that countless performers received the recognition they deserved for their contributions to the entertainment industry.

A Heart of Gold

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Malone was known for his compassion and dedication to causes close to his heart. He was a tireless advocate for the Motion Picture and TV Fund, which provides support and services to entertainment industry workers in need.

Malone’s caring nature extended to his personal life as well. He acted as a caregiver for his ailing grandmother, demonstrating a level of dedication that went far beyond his public persona.

“He was honored as the ‘Most Promising Actor in Hollywood’ by the Southern California Motion Picture Council and presented with the award by Bob Hope.”

This accolade, presented by none other than Bob Hope, speaks to the potential that Malone’s peers saw in him early in his career. Yet, it was his commitment to others that truly defined his legacy.

A Lasting Legacy

Randal Malone’s passing on July 28, 2024, leaves a void in the entertainment industry and in the hearts of those who knew him. He is survived by his mother Shirley, brothers Donald and James, sister Allison, and his partner of 38 years, Michael Schwibs.

As plans for a memorial service are underway, it’s clear that Malone’s impact extended far beyond his on-screen performances. His dedication to the Motion Picture and TV Fund, his role in preserving Hollywood history, and his personal acts of kindness paint a picture of a man who understood that true stardom isn’t measured in box office numbers, but in the lives you touch along the way.