Trending
MILWAUKEE -- Musician Mike Schank, best known for his good guy role in the award-winning documentary film "American Movie," has died, according to a close friend. He was 53.
Jackie Bogenberger said Schank had been battling cancer in recent months and died Thursday.
"American Movie" won best documentary at the Sundance Film Festival and became a cult favorite over the years. The 1999 film chronicled the making of the horror short "Coven" by independent filmmaker Mark Borchardt, with Schank -- Borchardt's best friend -- shown in the film supporting Borchardt's filmmaking dream through various challenges.
Schank's deadpan humor and quiet sweetness in "Movie" -- including his honesty about his struggles with alcoholism and gambling addiction -- made him a beloved, unforgettable figure. He hilariously provided a bloodcurdling scream for "Coven" and also composed its music. The 1999's documentary's success led to several opportunities, including a role in the 2001 film "Storytelling" and a voice cameo as himself on the animated sitcom "Family Guy."