Jonathan Tiersten, best known for his role as Ricky Thomas in the 1983 cult classic horror film Sleepaway Camp, died at the age of 60 at his home in New Jersey last week. His brother William Tiersten confirmed the tragic news, adding that the medical examiner is still investigating the cause of death, according to TMZ.
Early Career and Breakout Role
Tiersten began his television career in the early 1980s, appearing in shows such as the NBC soap Another World. His breakout role came in 1983 when he made his feature film debut as Angela's cousin Ricky in Sleepaway Camp. The film, a slasher classic set at a summer camp, follows a series of gruesome murders. He later reprised his role in two of the four sequel films: Return to Sleepaway Camp (2008) and Sleepaway Camp IV: The Survivor (2012).
Continued Work in Horror and Thrillers
After his initial success, Tiersten demonstrated his passion for the horror genre, starring in films such as The Perfect House, Terror Tales, and Time's Up. He also appeared in thrillers like Lake of Shadows, Last American Horror Show: Volume II, and Redemption. One of his most critically acclaimed roles was portraying fictional serial killer John Doesy in the 2012 horror anthology The Perfect House, for which he won the award for Best Supporting Actor at the Macabre Faire Film Festival the following year.
Music Career
In addition to acting, Tiersten was a talented musician. He was the frontman, vocalist, and guitarist for his band Jonathan Tiersten and Ten Tiers. His IMDb profile notes his music career, stating: 'As a singer/songwriter, Tiersten made his presence felt on the Greenwich Village folk-rock/roots rock circuit in the late 1980s and early 1990s as one-half of the acoustic duo The Magic Box.' He released his first solo album, Heaven, in 1998, and was also a member of the alternative funk-rock band Gaphiltaphunk. His band TEN TIERS released their debut album, Don's Club Tavern: Part 1, in 2006.
Education and Legacy
Tiersten studied acting at New York University before his breakout role. His legacy as a genre-defining star is remembered by fans, many of whom took to social media to share condolences and heartwarming stories about meeting him at conventions. He is survived by his son and siblings.
