Jonathan Frid, a.k.a. Barnabas Collins, is dead at age 87

MPI has released the announcement that Jonathan Frid, who played the vampire Barnabas Collins in the hugely popular Gothic daytime soap opera "Dark Shadows," has died today at the age of 87. "Dark Shadows" had been experiencing a revival this past year, with renewed interest because of the upcoming Tim Burton and Johnny Depp movie version.

Here's MPI's official statement on Frid's passing:

"The death of Jonathan Frid today at age 87 has left all of us at MPI deeply saddened," said Malik Ali, CEO of MPI Media Group, home of the Dark Shadows Series on DVD  "As a gifted actor in the role of Barnabas Collins, Jonathan was the heart and soul of 'Dark Shadows' and, as recently as last week, was graciously taking part in activities surrounding the series. He never tired of meeting fans and was always excited to hear about new 'Dark Shadows' releases. Most recently, Frid filmed a cameo appearance for Tim Burton and Johnny Depp's upcoming 'Dark Shadows' movie, along with fellow original cast members Kathryn Leigh Scott, David Selby and Lara Parker. MPI remains committed to preserving Jonathan's legacy, and that of everyone who helped make 'Dark Shadows' an enduring and beloved phenomenon."

Pictured on the second photo, taken at a recent "Dark Shadows" reunion, are: (l to r) David Selby, Lara Parker, Jonathan Frid, Kathryn Leigh Scott, John Karlen, and Marie Wallace.