John Kirby, Renowned Hollywood Acting Coach and Son of Bruce Kirby, Dies at 75
According to CinemaDrame News Agency, John Kirby, a veteran and highly respected Hollywood acting coach, has passed away at the age of 75 following a courageous three-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His long-time associate, Nathan Nesbitt, confirmed the news in a poignant social media post, stating that Kirby passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, July 15, 2026.
Throughout his illustrious career, John Kirby served as a trusted acting coach on numerous high-profile film and television projects. He was particularly celebrated for his close, enduring professional partnership with actor Jim Caviezel. Kirby coached Caviezel across an impressive slate of films, including Frequency (2000), Pay It Forward (2000), Angel Eyes (2001), The Count of Monte Cristo (2002), High Crimes (2002), I Am David (2003), The Final Cut (2004), Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004), Unknown (2006), and Paul, Apostle of Christ (2018). He also guided Caviezel’s performance in the acclaimed 2009 miniseries The Prisoner.
Beyond his work with Caviezel, Kirby’s extensive roster of coaching credits included major blockbusters and beloved productions such as Peter Pan (2003), The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Outlander, Hotel California, Scream 4, and The Prom.
Kirby was born into a distinguished Hollywood family. His brother, Bruno Kirby—the celebrated actor known for his indelible roles in classics like Good Morning, Vietnam and When Harry Met Sally…—tragically passed away from leukemia in 2006. Their father, Bruce Kirby, was a veteran character actor best remembered for his recurring role as Sergeant Kramer in the hit series Columbo; he passed away in 2021 at the age of 95.
John Kirby was diagnosed with ALS in June 2023, following a severe fall that resulted in a fractured hip. According to his inner circle, a memorial service celebrating his life and legacy will be held on August 14 in Los Angeles, which will be open to the public.
“Such sad news. John Kirby was a incredible mentor whose influence touched so many iconic performances and shaped so many careers over the decades. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire acting community.”