Barry Dennen was an American actor and writer. He is best known for playing Pontius Pilate on the original 1970 recording of Jesus Christ Superstar as well as the subsequent 1971 stage musical and 1973 film adaptation. He also appeared in notable films including Fiddler on the Roof, The Shining, Shock Treatment, Titanic, and performed the voice of the Skeksis Chamberlain in The Dark Crystal.