RANCHO MIRAGE, CALIF.– Anne Rice (born Howard Allen Frances O’Brien), best known for her series of novels “The Vampire Chronicles,” died at her home here on Dec. 11 due to complications from a stroke. She was 80.

The Hollywood Reporter has the story.

MSTies will recall that she was mentioned in a host segment in episode 409- THE INDESTRUCTIBLE MAN.

Thanks to “Yelling Into the Void” for the heads up.

Harrowgate, England–British dramatist Ian Curteis died at a hospital here Nov. 24. He was 86.

His career in television began as a script reader for both the BBC and Granada Television. Curteis joined the staff of the BBC as a trainee director in 1964.

MSTies will recall his role as director of the movie in episode 901- THE PROJECTED MAN (1966). Switching to a career as a television dramatist from the late 1960s onwards, Curteis wrote for many series of the time, including “The Onedin Line” and “Crown Court.”

The Guardian has the story.

Thanks to Paul for the heads up.