Bill Hinzman dies at 75

Actor and filmmaker Bill Hinzman, best known for his role as the first zombie shambling across a cemetery in George Romero's "Night of the Living Dead," died of cancer Feb. 5 in Darlington, Pa. He was 75. The 1968 horror pic launched Hinzman on a long career of creepy roles in what many consider to believe was a new horror genre. His other film credits include "The Crazies" (1973), "Flesheater" (1988) and "Legion of the Night" (1995). His last movie role was in last year's "River of Darkness."Hinzman also worked as a cinematographer, beginning with "The Crazies," and directed, as well as starred in, "Flesheater" and "The Majorettes" (1987).According to the Chicago Sun-times, he is survived by his wife, Bonita, a daughter, his mother, two brothers and a granddaughter. Contact Variety Staff at news@variety.com