Gone but not forgotten: the best Fred Willard’s best movie roles

In May, the entertainment world mourned the loss of Emmy Award-nominated actor Fred Willard. The stalwart actor passed away in his Los Angeles Home, aged 86.

Willard was joy-inducing in every which way. His effortless humour permeated through every avenue of his illustrious and far-reaching career. To celebrate his inimitable legacy and life, we’re taking a look at his best performances.

Best in Show

The collaborative partnership between Willard and writer, actor and director Christopher Guest was a kind of sacred magic. Best In Show — a 2000 mockumentary about the uber-competitive world of dog-shows — is Willard at his best. It’s a devilishly funny, completely absurd film. Willard plays a totally useless and completely loveable commentator.

Waiting For Guffman

Another Christopher Guest cut. The film saw Willard play one part of the husband-and-wife power duo with Catherine O’Hara. The pair are travel agents that have never been out of town, known as “the Lunts of Blaine.” It’s unadulterated silliness.

This Is Spinal Tap

Willard only played a small role in this iconic music mockumentary, but one could argue that this film is only as magic as its cameos. It’s worth rewatching for his role as the Air Force lieutenant tasked with guiding Spinal Tap around a military facility in anticipation for their performance.

Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy

I’m not too keen on Will Ferrell comedies but something about Anchorman just hits so right. At this point I assume everyone has seen the ridiculous newsroom comedy, but if you haven’t revisited it in a while, let this be the encouragement you need. Fred Willard plays the station director Ed Harken. His performance in the film is testament to his ability to share very little screen time but have an unmeasurable comedic impact. Just stunning.

Salem’s Lot

Ok this is technically not a film, but it’s a 183 minute mini-series so i reckon it counts. I firmly believe that one of the greatest, unsung joys in this life is tucking into a meaty mini-series and cracking it off in one go. In a rare serious role. Stephen King adaptations are so hit and miss — this, my friends, is a total victory. It’s camp, it’s gory, it’s super spooky fun. The 1979 two-part series sees Willard in a rare serious role, portraying slimeball real-estate agent Larry Crockett.