Renowned actor Jack Taylor, celebrated for his roles in “Conan the Barbarian” and “Count Dracula,” has passed away at the age of 99. Over the course of his prolific career, Taylor graced numerous films and worked alongside legendary figures such as Marilyn Monroe. He died on May 12, 2026, just months shy of his 100th birthday in October, a milestone he was close to reaching. Despite his extensive filmography, Taylor chose not to live in the bustling epicenter of Hollywood, opting instead to make Madrid his home for more than six decades.
His choice of residence didn’t hinder his television career. Taylor is remembered for his compelling performance as a priest opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1982 film “Conan the Barbarian,” directed by John Milius. In 1999, he captivated audiences again in Roman Polanski’s “The Ninth Gate,” where he played an antique book collector alongside Johnny Depp. Additionally, he appeared in Milos Forman’s “Goya’s Ghosts” in 2006.
In Spain, Taylor featured in a variety of films, including the X-rated “Succubis” in 1968 and “Eugenia” in 1970, among others. Reports suggest that after experiencing challenges in Hollywood, he relocated to Mexico, mastered the language, and secured roles in films like “The Ivory Tower” and “Nostradamus y el Destructor de Monstruous.”
Born George Brown Randall, Taylor continued to enjoy a thriving stage career after settling in Madrid. His initial visit to the city was for a performance in the Mexican musical comedy “La Pelirroja,” a trip that ultimately led him to make Madrid his permanent home.
Following the news of his passing, tributes have flooded in for the beloved actor. A fellow actor shared on social media, “Sad news today: my recent co-star, the incredible legendary Jack Taylor, who played my lead antagonist in ‘The Birthday,’ has passed away at 99. My heartfelt condolences go out to all of Jack’s friends and family.”
Another wrote: “He was great in The Ninth Gate, and Conan the Barbarian. He’s the priest guy that Conan lures behind a tent and knocks him out to steal his robes. 99 is a good run. Sad to see him go though.” While a third said: “RIP, time to watch Pieces again.”
Prior to his death, he published his memoirs titled My 100 Years of Cinema, but sadly died before making it to the triple figure. The book acted as a retrospective on his extensive career in the film industry, focusing on all the trials and tribulations he faced while he tried to make it in Hollywood.