Gerrit Graham cause of death: What happened to ‘Phantom of the Paradise’ actor and ‘Grateful Dead’ songwriter?

Veteran actor, screenwriter and songwriter Gerrit Graham has died at the age of 77 following a long battle with lung disease and other health complications. The "Phantom of the Paradise" star had largely retired from Hollywood in his later years, living in Rhinebeck, New York, with his mother. Graham, who was born in New York in 1948 and raised in various states, had a long-standing creative relationship with acclaimed filmmaker Brian De Palma, having worked together on several early films.

He is best remembered for his role as flamboyant rock singer Beef in De Palma's cult musical "Phantom of the Paradise," a performance that has earned a devoted following over the years. In addition to acting, Graham was an accomplished screenwriter, contributing to projects such as "The Little Mermaid," "Oliver & Company," and episodes of "The Twilight Zone."

He also co-wrote Disney's adaptation of "The Prince and the Pauper" with his brother Sam Graham and writer Chris Hubbell. Graham's musical talents extended to co-writing the Grateful Dead song "Victim or the Crime" with Bob Weir. He is survived by his four grandchildren, his brother Sam, and his sons Jack and Henry, along with their wives.