???Actor and University at Buffalo alumnus Ron Silver died Sunday at the age of 62 after enduring a two-year battle with esophageal cancer.
???In 1988, Silver received a Tony Award for his performance as lead actor in the David Mamet Broadway play "Speed-the-Plow," portraying film producer Charlie Fox.
???Silver was nominated for two Emmys, in 1999 for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role as Bruno Gianelli on The West Wing and in 1987 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Special for Billionaire Boys Club.
???Silver also received a nomination for a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Performer in a Children/Youth/Family special in the television show Jack in 2004.
???Other notable small screen roles Silver made included roles on Veronica's Closet from 1998 to 1999 and Chicago Hope from 1996 to 1997.
???Silver also appeared in several feature films, including Kathryn Bigelow's Blue Steel and Sidney Lumet's Find Me Guilty.
???Born in New York City, Silver graduated from UB in 1967 with a bachelor's degree in modern language and literature. He went on to receive his master's degree in Chinese history from St. John's University before studying drama.
???Away from the camera, Silver was well-known for his strong political stances. After being a long-time advocate of liberal social and political causes, Silver became a vocal supporter of George W. Bush's military policies after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
???Silver went on to speak at the 2004 Republican National Convention and began referring to himself as a "9/11 Republican." Silver ultimately changed his political party affiliation from Democrat to Independent.
???Silver is survived by his son, Adam, and his daughter, Alexandra.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
