Overview

• The Monkees announced his death at 86, and friend Glenn Ballantyne said he died at home in Los Angeles after declining health following a broken hip.
• With Tommy Boyce, Hart wrote the TV theme and hits including “Last Train to Clarksville,” “I’m Not Your Steppin’ Stone” and “I Wanna Be Free,” also producing early sessions with their Candy Store Prophets band.
• Micky Dolenz praised Hart’s talent and steady presence in a tribute, crediting Boyce & Hart with helping create the group’s signature sound.
• Beyond the Monkees, Hart co-wrote “Hurt So Bad,” earned an Oscar nomination for “Over You,” wrote the Days of Our Lives theme, and campaigned for Robert F. Kennedy with the pro‑voting “L.U.V. (Let Us Vote).”
• The family suggested donations to the Self-Realization Fellowship, reflecting Hart’s later spiritual focus that included a 2024 book on Kriya Yoga.