william atherton

Ah, synchronicity. Sometimes things just happen, and for actor William Atherton, today is one of those days. First he's recognized by Scott Weinberg in Cinematical's "Villains We Love" feature for his memorable performances as some of cinema's greatest pricks. Then, Erik Davis brought us the news today that Atherton is probably joining the cast of Lost.

Now, figures.com is showing off the first ever Walter Peck toy -- the officious douche Atherton played in the 1984 film Ghostbusters. The toy is part of Art Asylum's long-running Mini-Mates line, and the latest Ghostbuster assortment of Mini-Mates includes Atherton's Peck, Janine Melnitz (played in the film by Annie Potts), and Ghostbusters Egon and Winston, both covered in Stay Puft marshmallow fall-out. The figures (Series 3) will be released Spring of 2010.

Congratulations, William Atherton, on your very special surprise day!

Just when you thought you couldn't anticipate the final season of Lost any more than you do now comes word that one of the greatest prick-ish character actors of all time has joined the cast in some capacity. Yes, folks, the great William Atherton has signed up for a part ... if Carlton Cuse's Twitter is to be believed. The Lost writer and executive producer recently tweeted the following cryptic message:

"Damon and I are die hard fans of this impeckable actor who keeps the barr high and just signed to guest star on the show. Life is good!"

So, yeah, not too hard to figure out. Atherton starred in both Die Hard and Die Hard 2, played Walter Peck in Ghostbusters and a character named Dr. Barr on Desperate Housewives. Part of me loves how these Lost-ies can't make an announcement without it being some sort of riddle or cryptic message, while the other part just wants them to come right out and say it sometimes. Well, regardless, this is a very cool addition to the series, and I truly hope they have him playing some slimeball because that's where Atherton has always shined. Fingers crossed. The final season premieres in January.

For more on William Atherton, check out today's Villains We Love piece over on Cinematical.