Memories of CAMPUS MAN

When I was a freshman at Arizona State University, CAMPUS MAN was filmed on and around the ASU campus. Being film-crazy, I got a gig as an extra, and was featured in the scenes shot around the ASU swimming stadium pool.

John Dye made a point of talking with all the extras, the crew, and was just generally friendly and open with any and all people present, the only one of the cast and crew to do so, btw.

I was pledging Sigma Pi fraternity at the time, and John took notice of my Sig Pi t-shirt my pledge class had made, which was quite controversial and causing a buzz around campus. He took a photo of the back of the shirt, a variation on the "See Dick Drive Drunk" ads of the time, featuring stick figures. Our shirt said "See Dick Bong a Beer." Juvenile, yes, but quite funny at the time.

John mentioned that he was a FIJI (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity) in college and we spoke for at least 15-20 minutes about fraternity life, college and film. He seemed like someone who was genuinely interested in others, and not the least bit self-absorbed, like so many actors tend to be.

I've now made my living in Hollywood for over 20 years, have met and interacted with many of the "greats," but will always remember John Dye as being one of the nicest and most genuine of the pros I've encountered. I was greatly saddened to hear of his passing at such a young age.

RIP.