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Mel Novak dead at 90: Bruce Lee's Game Of Death co-star passes away and family reveal cause of death


Novak was notable for his work in a string of martial arts movies, in which he impressively performed all of his own stunts.

He had suffered physical pain every day, particularly in his final years, as a result of injuries he sustained during his Hollywood career, said Nikol. In his most enduring and beloved role, Novak featured as the villainous hitman Stick, whose nickname derives from the matchstick he always twiddles between his teeth. Born Milan Mrdjenovich to Serbian parents in Wall, Pennsylvania, Novak grew up in Pittsburgh dreaming of playing professional baseball.

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