Christopher Allport, a TV actor known for roles in Mad Men and The X-Files, died in an avalanche in California in 2008. His own written advice about backcountry skiing safety proved tragically prophetic.
Fatal Avalanche in California
Allport was killed by three avalanches near the Mountain High ski resort in Wrightwood, California, on January 25, 2008. Two other men, Michael McKay and Darin Bodie Coffey, also perished. A fourth man survived after striking a rock and reaching safety.
The San Gabriel Mountains had been hit by severe winter storms, with three feet of snow falling the week before. The area, normally avalanche-free, attracted the actor and winter sports enthusiast.
Out-of-Bounds Skiing
Allport was skiing outside the resort's boundaries in the northeast of Los Angeles with a friend. He was found dead under 10 feet of snow at 9:45am. Such out-of-bounds areas are clearly signposted, but staff cannot prevent skiers from entering.
Prophetic Words
Years earlier, Allport had written about 'the pleasures of backcountry skiing' for the Los Angeles Times. He advised: "With backcountry savvy, the right equipment, survival skills and a sense of adventure, skilled mountain hands can leave the masses behind and experience the freedom and solitude of the wilderness in winter." He also wrote: "Any excursion into the mountains requires awareness. Have fun, but be careful."
His friend Jordan Roberts told the Los Angeles Times: "He would surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon. He was knowledgeable in every conceivable outdoor activity."
Career and Family
Allport, aged 60, was set to play Pete Campbell's father, Andrew, in Mad Men. His death was written into the show; his character perished in the crash of American Airlines Flight 1 in the episode 'Flight One'.
He left behind his wife, author Susan Hayden, married since 1993, and two children, Mason and Andrew.
