Ken Page, best known for his roles in The Nightmare Before Christmas and on Broadway, has passed away at the age of 70. The Missouri-born actor, who portrayed Oogie Boogie in the beloved film, also had notable performances in ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’ and ‘Cats’. Page’s representative, Lance Kirkland, confirmed that he passed away peacefully at his home in St. Louis on September 30.
Born on January 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Page began his acting career on Broadway with roles in The Wiz and Guys and Dolls. He gained recognition for originating the character Ken in ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’ and portraying Old Deuteronomy in the television adaptation of Cats. Page’s most iconic voice acting role was Oogie Boogie in The Nightmare Before Christmas, where he not only sang “Oogie Boogie’s Song” but also provided the character’s dialogue.
In an interview, Page shared insights on how he developed the voice for Oogie Boogie, drawing inspiration from past performances and characters like Bert Lahr and Mercedes McCambridge. His diverse talents and larger-than-life presence made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributions to both stage and screen.
In addition to his acting career, Page also created and performed in a successful cabaret show titled Page by Page. His passing marks the end of a remarkable career that has left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. Fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of a talented performer who will be deeply missed.