Fans Mourn the Loss of Robert Trebor: The Salmoneus We All Loved
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the whimsical world of television, shall we? The enchanting realm where heroes battle monsters, and merchants with a penchant for mischief steal our hearts. Recently, the beloved Robert Trebor, best known for his portrayal of the charming Salmoneus in “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” and “Xena: Warrior Princess,” passed away at the age of 71. Trebor, who breathed life into a character that effortlessly combined humor and heart, succumbed to sepsis after a valiant battle with leukemia, a disease he was diagnosed with in 2012. His wife, Deirdre Hennings, shared the news with a heavy heart, reminding us all of the irreplaceable spark he brought to every role he inhabited.
Born in Philadelphia and a proud graduate of Northwestern University, Trebor’s early career saw him gracing the stages of New York’s Ensemble Studio Theatre. His breakout moment came in 1985 when he tackled the chilling role of Son of Sam in the TV movie “Out of the Darkness.” From there, the floodgates opened, leading to roles in films like “Talk Radio” and “My Demon Lover.” However, it was the fantastical realm of ancient Greece that truly welcomed him with open arms.
Salmoneus, Trebor’s most iconic character, was a merchant navigating the fine line between enthusiasm and opportunism. He once described his character’s journey as an earnest attempt to be good, despite his mercantile instincts consistently leading him astray. In his own words, “He was just a very enthusiastic guy who didn’t read the fine print.” And let’s face it, who among us hasn’t found ourselves in a similar predicament at some point?
Trebor became such a fan favorite that he transformed into an action figure and a staple at conventions around the world, proving that even in the realm of fantasy, one can achieve legendary status. His career didn’t stop there; he appeared in various other projects, including “Jiminy Glick in Lalawood” and the Coen Brothers’ “Hail, Caesar!” in 2016, showcasing his versatility and enduring talent.
As we bid farewell to this extraordinary talent, Trebor leaves behind not just a legacy of laughter and joy, but also a scholarship fund established in his name. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who, through his art, brought so much light into the world. So, here’s to Robert Trebor—may his memory live on in the hearts of all who cherished his work. Class dismissed. Don’t forget to binge-watch those classic episodes!
**
Sources: Celebrity Storm and ** People Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, Dotdash Meredith
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
