Musician Mike Shank, best known for his role as the good guy in the award-winning documentary. American film, is dead. He was 53 years old.
Shank’s close friend Jackie Bogenberger said Shank had been battling cancer in recent months and died Thursday.
American film Won Best Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival and has become a cult favorite over the years. The 1999 film described the making of the horror short. Coven By independent filmmaker Marc Borchardt, the film features Schenk – Borchardt’s best friend – supporting Borchardt’s filmmaking dream through various challenges.
Shank’s deadpan humor and quiet sweetness the film – including his honesty about his struggles with alcoholism and gambling addiction – made him a beloved, unforgettable figure. He let out a blood-curdling scream in a comical manner. Coven And also composed its music. The success of the 1999 documentary led to several opportunities, including a role in the 2001 film. Telling a story and a voice cameo as himself on the animated sitcom Family man.
During his battles with addiction and cancer, Shank “has been one of the kindest and most selfless human beings on this earth,” Bogenberger said.
Family, friends and others paid tribute on Twitter.
Lord of the Rings Star Elijah Wood called Schenk a “legend”, adding “Mike Schenk forever.” Comedian Peyton Oswalt tweeted a simple “RIP.” Actor Rainn Wilson tweeted, “This is sad. Loved this amazing human being.”
Schenk’s best friend, Borchardt, simply tweeted: “Always stay strong, Mike…”.
In August, Schenk announced on Twitter that he was 27 years old.
About three months before Schenk’s announcement, he began telling friends and family that he had been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, according to Bogenberger.
Bogenberger said there will be a celebration of life Nov. 12 at the Milwaukee Alano Club, where Schank volunteered for two decades.