Ricardo Montalban Dies at 88

Ricardo Montalban has died. He was 88.

This from the New York Times:

Ricardo Montalban, the Mexican-born actor who became a star in splashy MGM musicals and later as the wish-fulfilling Mr. Roarke in TV's ''Fantasy Island,'' died Wednesday morning at his home, his family said. He was 88. Montalban's death was first announced at a city council meeting by president Eric Garcetti, who represents the district where the actor lived. He died ''from complications of advancing age,'' his son-in-law, Gilbert Smith, later said.

''He was so gracious, and Aaron was always humbled by Ricardo's gratitude for 'Fantasy Island,'' said Candy Spelling, wife of the late Aaron Spelling, who created the show. ''I miss him already, and wish his family well.''

Montalban had been a star in Mexican movies when MGM brought him to Hollywood in 1946. He was cast in the leading role opposite Esther Williams in ''Fiesta,'' and starred again with the swimming beauty in ''On an Island with You'' and ''Neptune's Daughter.''

But Montalban was best known as the faintly mysterious, white-suited Mr. Roarke, who presided over a tropical island resort where visitors fulfilled their lifelong dreams -- usually at the unexpected expense of a difficult life lesson. ''I am Mr. Roarke, your host. Welcome to Fantasy Island,'' he told arriving guests.

Beyond "Fantasy Island," which I watched religiously as a kid, below is one of my favorite memories of him in his hit film, "Star Trek: Wrath of Khan." Who else could sell the line, "Let them eat static!"

Not many.