Hendrickson's family has suggested that fans who would like to make a charitable gift in his name may donate to the American Brain Tumor Association in honor of Stephen A. Hendrickson, Sr., on behalf of Benjamin Hendrickson. Go to www.abta.org for more information.

Most agree that Hendrickson was universally beloved; here's what some of his former co-workers had to say about his tragic passing.

"When I worked with him 25 years ago doing The Elephant Man on Broadway, I knew then how incredible he was. We both loved scuba diving and whenever I'd see him, he'd always say, 'Hello, diver!' I've always admired him and am so glad I got to cross paths with him again [on ATWT]." — Kin Shriner (ex-Keith, ATWT; ex-Scotty, GH/PC et al.)

"I always thought he was incredibly charming and had a twinkle in his eye and a little grin that said so much. I was so shocked. It makes me very sad." — Mary Beth Evans (Kayla, DAYS; ex-Sierra, ATWT)

"When I was going through chemotherapy for my stem cell transplant at Sloan-Kettering, Ben and I had a long talk in his dressing room. He had lost his brother to cancer. He gave me advice that proved to be very, very valuable: 'Be vigilant — watch carefully — anyone can make a mistake and if they do it can cost you your life.' Thank you, Ben. I hope you are at peace." — Anthony Herrera (ex-James, ATWT)

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With sadness, the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) notes the recent death of actor, Benjamin Hendrickson.

Mr. Hendrickson became a good friend to the Association after his brother, Steve, succumbed to a brain tumor in November 1996.   Mr. Hendrickson starred as the neurosurgeon in Alex’s Journey, a film about a youngster diagnosed with a brain tumor.  Also, he wrote and produced a short documentary for ABTA about brain tumors and the importance of research.  And in July 1999, Mr. Hendrickson spoke at an ABTA Patient Meeting to offer hope to those patients battling a brain tumor.

Our collective condolences are extended to his family, friends, and fans. 

Naomi Berkowitz
Executive Director
American Brain Tumor Association
www.abta.org

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I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of the death of actor Benjamin Hendrickson. I read your magazine for updates on the soaps all the time.  I like to catch up on "As the World Turns" because I don't get to see it much.  I only get to watch it sometimes on my days off.  I was watching the beginning of this week because I was off, and was watch the scenes of the hospital with Jennifer and her family.  I was very moved by the performances by the actors.

Mr. Hendrickson was a truly great actor, and his performances such as the ones this week really show the solid acting he brought to the screen for the years. I will miss him very much.

I was not happy when I heard years back he left because of the contract dispute, but I was so happy when I heard he was coming back.  My first reaction was "Hal's back." Simply put, it was like the return of an old friend.  His consistent and terrific performances time and time again will make us viewers miss him all the more.

Sincerely,
Tara

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As a long time As The Word Turns fan, I am deeply sadden at the sudden death of our beloved Hal (Harold) Munson. There will be no one like him. I have been a devoted fan of this show for over 30 plus years thanks in part to my late Mother, and late Grandmother who got me hooked on this show. From then on, I could not pass up each episode for they are all special.

My heart and prayers go out to Mr. Hendrickson's family, and the entire cast, and crew at As The World Turns. He will be sorely missed. I thank God for the time we did have with him as the viewing audience what a rare treat, and such raw and emotional talent Benjamin had. It will not be the same.

In thoughts and prayers a loyal devastated fan.
Karen L. Spurlock

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Hello,
Oh my goodness, when I heard about the passing of Mr. Hendrickson, I was so saddened. I began watching ATWT immediately after Another World was canceled and I was immediately hooked. I became a fan of Benjamin's right away and was shocked to hear that he had passed away. I was just watching his scenes with Jennifer Ferrin on Jen's "deathbed" and I cannot believe that now we will no longer be seeing him anymore. What a sad loss for the Daytime community. My condolences to Mr. Hendrickson's family, friends, and the cast of ATWT. He will be missed.

Sincere regards,
Leonora Montuoro Ottawa, ON Canada

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I am truely sorry about the passing of Benjamin Hendrickson, he will be forever missed.  It was really a shock to hear about his death.  My heart is with his family.

Joyce Gay
Wilson  North Carolina

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Such a huge tragedy and loss of a Great actor! Nobody can replace Benjamin Hendrickson as Hal on As The World Turns. They have tried before and it did not work. 

Deeply saddened in
Des Moines Iowa

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