Howard Alk | Heroin Overdose Death

Howard Alk was an American filmmaker who collaborated with numerous artists throughout his career. Not only was he the co-founder of the Second City theater troupe, he also worked as a film director and cinematographer. Alk died of a heroin overdose in 1982.

How Howard Alk Died

In early January, 1982, Alk was found dead at Bob Dylan’s Rundown Studios in Santa Monica, California. Alk struggled with heroin use most of his life, and the local coroner ruled the death a heroin overdose. However, those close to Alk believed his death may have been suicide.

Although he passed at the age of 51, Alk left his mark on the world with his long, creative career in film.

About Howard Alk

Howard Alk was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 25, 1930, and attended the University of Chicago. While there, he became a member of the Compass Players cabaret troupe alongside Paul Sills and Bernie Sahlins.

Later, Alk joined the Second City, an improv theater group. In the early 1960s, he left and joined the Chicago production company known as the Film Group.

Politics

According to the Chicago Film Archives, Alk was interested in the African-American perspective and edited The Cry of Jazz during the 1950s. Additionally, Alk participated in two political documentaries, one of which includes the American Revolution 2.

The other is a 1971 documentary titled The Murder of Fred Hampton which is about the Black Panther party leader who was murdered by Chicago Police. The film also sheds light on the cover up by the State’s Attorney Edward Hanrahan.

Alk was friends with the singer and songwriter Bob Dylan and lived at his home for a period of time. He accompanied Dylan on tour as well.

Filmography

While on the road, Alk filmed and edited footage together. During this time, he helped assist with various documentaries, music albums, and films. His filmography includes:

• Luxman Baul’s Movie
• Renaldo and Clara
• Eat the Document
• Janis
• Hard Rain
• Don’t Look Back
• My Friend Vince

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