Some of you who've been around a long time may recall Eric Gelman. He had small roles in "Mr. Monk and the TV Star" and in "Mr. Monk Goes to Vegas". In both episodes he played a paparazzi photographer. On April 17th 2005, two months after "Vegas" aired, Eric was murdered. Like many aspiring actors in Los Angeles he was also working as a waiter. After work, as he was walking to his car, he was mugged for his tips and stabbed to death. I posted the news story on the old board. I heard from a friend of his at that time, who echoed the sentiments of Eric's family and many other friends:

Eric Gelman was a former employee of mine in New York City. His murder saddens me deeply. Eric was such a kind soul that would do anything for anyone. I hope that the Fairfax police can catch his murderer and put him to justice. This was one of the most senseless crimes I have ever heard of. I can understand getting mugged, but murdered for what little cash one has on himself just doesn't make any sense. This animal who committed this crime needs to be caught and made to face his maker. Thank you for starting this thread.

Scott Young


The killer was caught in December of 2005, but it wasn't until March of 2007 that the case finally went to trial. Eric's friend actor Stephon Fuller, who had a small guest role in "Mr. Monk is on the Air," wrote on his blog about meeting Eric's parents as they awaited the result of the trial.

This is and continues to be a heart breaking situation. His parents and other members of his family that I've met are the greatest…and truth be told……I hate that I know, first-hand, just how great they are. I hate that I've shaken their hands, hugged them and have cried in front of them. I wish I'd never met them; it tears me apart to see them go through this.

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Unfortunately his family had more to go through. That trial ended in a hung jury. So did the next one. On September 7th 2007, after the third trial, Eric's killer was finally convicted. Today he was sentenced to 20 years to life.