I wanted to express my extreme sorrow at the death of Benjamin Hendrickson.  I have thoroughly enjoyed watching him play the character of Hal on As the World Turns over the years.  His character has always been that of a very strong and honorable man and always found it in himself to do the right thing.  I missed seeing him when he went off the show for a while and I know that I will surely miss in the future.  I know that his family and co-workers are really at a loss now that we are without Benjamin Hendrickson (Hal).  My sincerest sympathy to all involved.

Jo Ann Lowe Nolte
Dallas, Texas

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To all of Ben's family and friends:

I send you my deepest sympathy. I have watched ATWT for many years, and Hal was a part of our lives. No one could ever replace him. He came into our homes and even though we know these people are actors, they become a member of your family. He will be very, very missed. As a viewer, the Oakdale P.D. will never be the same without him. I hope they do not try to replace him, no actor could do that, and make it real to me. I know there are people who call this type of death selfish because of the pain that is left behind, but I say, walk a mile in someone's shoes before we condemn them.

Sincerely,
Rose R. Goebel
Houston, Texas

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Farewell to old friends lets raise a glass to the bitter end. I'm shocked, saddened, heartsick. I'm so sorry for his families loss, and what a loss that must be. I've watched Benjamin playing Hal since the day he started on this show. I've loved his character very much he was a real mans man. Not your everyday soap star, but a real star with such grace, caring, and love for his peers. He didn't get that Emmy for his courgeous head of hair (as he said during his wonderful speech), but for his gigantic talent and heart!!  He mastered his craft and mentored others along the way I'm sure. He'll be missed by all of us.
Farewell old friend, we'll see you again someday.

All my love and respect to his friends and family!!
Melanie Keel

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I was very saddened to hear about the sudden death of Benjamin Hendrikson. He was a fine and talented actor. My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and cast members of ATWT. This man will be deeply missed!!!!

Jenna, NY

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Wow, what a sad loss!! I'm so shocked and saddened to hear of the tragic death of Benjamin ( our beloved Hal). I've been watching ATWT, since 1981. Saw the start of the wonderful character of Hal Munson. So sorry that I've now seen the last show of this much loved actor. Its hard to understand not knowing about his personal life other than the tremendous loss of family he had endured, and the pain that must have been for him. I don't know if he himself was ill, but the work he did with the ABTA, was  inspiring for us all. I'm so sorry for his family and friends, I know this is a difficult time. My prayers and thoughts go out to each and everyone of you. As well as his TV family, my thoughts and prayers are also with you all. How sad this must be for you all. SO LETS RAISE THAT CHAMPAGNE GLASS AND SAY A TOAST TO YOU MR. BENJAMIN HENDRICKSON, may you find that peace that was not here for you. I'm sorry you felt so helpless, that that was your answer. We will miss you and your character, Detective Hal Munson OPD.

All my love and prayers from Deep In The Heart Of Texas
Melanie a devoted fan of CBS soaps.

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I was just browsing the web and ran across this awful story!  I would like to say that not only did his family and friends lose a great man, but so did ATWT and all his fans.

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family, ATWT family and his friends.  I am so shocked that I don't know what else to write.  I know that God took him home so that he can live eternal life.  I will keep you in my prayers.  God Bless! 

Diana

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I was so sad to hear of Hal's passing. He should know if we didn't love him so much on the show, he would have left years ago by the writing staff!  I will miss that face, I was so glad when he came back on from being off last year. He was Hal. No one can be as good at the role as he was.
Barb in Missouri

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I saw the news of Benjamin Hendrickson's death on the Soap Oprea Digest web site. I told my mom about it and we were both very shocked by the news. I am going to miss seeing Benjamin Hendrickson on As the World Turns. I hope that ATWT has a tribute to (Hal) on the show one day. Daytime will not be the same without Benjamin Hendrickson.

Anna
Kings Mountain, NC

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Having only been a fan of ATWT for a year, I'm not very familiar with the character of Hal Munson. However, I do remember reading articles about the death of his brother several years back in SOD. I remember thinking that Mr. Hendrickson was a very handsome man, but there was a sadness in his eyes. When I started watching ATWT, I immediately was drawn to his character. I thought Hal was so handsome and dynamic. For example, when he was angry at another character, I found myself wanting to say "Yes sir. I'm sorry I let you down." Hal was such a trusting father figure, and Benjamin Hendrickson is the only actor who will ever be Hal Munson. I'm so shocked by his death. I don't know why he killed himself, but I hope he knows how much he is and will always be loved by fans, friends, and family. I'll miss you Lt. Munson, sir!

Erin Hodges

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