Best known for his role as Stringfellow Hawke in '80s TV action series 'Airwolf', Jan-Michael Vincent has passed away at the age of 73.
Before he became the pilot of the infamous helicopter, Vincent had starred in a number of underrated hits, particularly John Milius' iconic surfing movie from 1978, 'Big Wednesday', opposite Gary Busey and William Katt.
He also starred in Michael Winner's over-the-top action thriller 'The Mechanic', paired up with Charles Bronson as his apprentice in 1972.
His role in 'Airwolf' earned the actor a reputed $200,000 per episode, making him the then-highest paid actor on television. However, the series only lasted two seasons - due in part to Vincent's extensive cocaine use.
Vincent's private life, as well, was particularly tumultuous. Married three times, the actor had a history of alcoholism and intravenous drug use, and was arrested several times for possession of drugs, and assault.
He was also in several car accidents in the '90s, of which he barely survived. These accidents, combined with his drug and alcohol abuse, left him with permanent injuries and eventually forced him to have his right leg amputated above the knee.
