Stiers Passes
2 min read
David Ogden Stiers, best-known for his role of Major Winchester on the smash hit M*A*S*H, and to Trek fans as Dr. Timicin in Star Trek: The Next Generation‘s Half a Life episode, is dead at the age of seventy-five.
Stiers died at his home in Newport, Oregon on Saturday, according to his agent. The cause of death was bladder cancer.
The actor joined M*A*S*H in 1977, replacing Major Burns (Larry Linville). Stiers was nominated twice (1981/1982) for Emmys for his role on the show.
In Half a Life, Stiers portrayed Dr. Timicin, a scientist who finds love too late, as he is slated to go through the “Resolution,” a ritual suicide undertaken by residents of his planet when they reach the age of sixty.
Stiers had an extensive television and movie resume, appearing in many shows such as Kojak, Charlie’s Angels, Phyllis, Mary Tyler Moore, and Rhoda. The actor also appeared on the stage; in 2009 he appeared in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas, followed by Much Ado About Nothing.
In his later years, Stiers did a lot of voice work, including Dr. Jumba Jookiba (Lilo & Stitch), Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, Wiggins in Pocahontas, and more.
“I remember how you skateboarded to work every day down busy L.A. streets,” said former co-star Alan Alda, via Twitter. “How, once you glided into Stage 9, you were Winchester to your core. How gentle you were, how kind, except when devising the most vicious practical jokes. We love you, David. Goodbye.”
“It is devastating, always, to lose one of us,” said Loretta Swit. “He was an extraordinary person, a gifted actor, phenomenal musician, and my sweet, dear shy friend, who kiddingly called me Letitia. Working with him was an adventure. He was exceptional. I’m hurting. We all are.”
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