Elliott Street, a proud native of Meridian, Mississippi, and a versatile actor who graced both the small and silver screens, passed away at the age of 80. His life was a testament to his passion for acting, his dedication to nurturing young talent, and his commitment to his hometown. The Merrystreet Players, a theatrical group in Meridian where Street was an active member, announced his passing on their Facebook page on Friday morning, noting he died Thursday night. To the troupe and countless others, Street was more than just a performer; he was “an actor, writer, director, artist, advocate, visionary, mentor, and friend,” and a true inspiration.
Born on December 30, 1943, in Meridian, Elliott Street’s journey began in the heart of Mississippi. He embarked on an acting career that would see him become a familiar face on television screens across America during the late 1960s and early 1980s. He secured guest roles in iconic TV series that defined the era. Audiences would recognize him from appearances in beloved shows such as “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” the wholesome charm of “Mayberry RFD,” the action-packed “Hawaii Five-O,” and the high-speed chases of “CHiPs.” His talent extended to crime dramas like “Barnaby Jones” and “The Rockford Files,” family favorites such as “Eight is Enough,” and detective series like “Ironside” and “Hunter.” He even brought his charm to the romantic comedy anthology “Love, American Style.” Street further showcased his acting range in significant television mini-series, taking roles in “The Winds of War” and “Chiefs,” and in compelling TV movies including “Resting Place,” “Unconquered,” and “The Last Ride of the Dalton Gang.”
Even after returning to his roots in Meridian, Elliott Street’s acting career continued to flourish. He successfully transitioned to Hollywood films, proving his staying power and versatility. He shared the screen with notable actors in a variety of films, further cementing his place in cinematic history. In 1984, he appeared in “The Bear” alongside Gary Busey. Decades later, he took part in “The Legend of Bagger Vance” (2000), a film featuring Will Smith and Matt Damon. He then joined the cast of the legal thriller “Runaway Jury” (2003) with John Cusack, Gene Hackman, and Dustin Hoffman. One of his later film roles was in the comedy “Last Vegas” (2013), where he acted alongside Hollywood legends Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas, and Morgan Freeman.
Driven by a desire to give back and nurture the next generation of actors, Elliott Street dedicated himself to education and community enrichment. He shared his expertise by teaching theater and speech at Meridian Community College, inspiring countless students. Recognized for his artistic contributions, he was also a valued member of the Mississippi Arts Commission touring artist roster, bringing arts and culture to communities across the state. Beyond acting and teaching, Street was deeply passionate about preserving the historical charm of Meridian. He channeled this passion into action, serving as the executive director of the Grand Opera House Revitalization Project. His efforts played a crucial role in preserving a significant landmark in Meridian, ensuring its legacy for future generations. Elliott Street’s multifaceted career and dedication to his community leave behind a lasting impact, and he will be fondly remembered by many.
