Mark Withers, Actor on ‘Dynasty’ and ‘Kaz,’ Dies at 77

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As a gamer who’s spent countless hours immersed in the world of TV and movies, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of appreciation for the talents like Mark Withers, whose work has brought so much joy to millions across the globe.

Mark Withers, who often appeared in series like Kaz, Dynasty, and Days of Our Lives, has tragically passed away at the age of 77.

Jessie Withers informed The Hollywood Reporter that her father, Withers, passed away on November 22, following a tough two-year struggle against pancreatic cancer.

She paid tribute by saying he faced his health struggles with the same strength and grace he used in his work, leaving behind a lasting impression of kindness, laughter, and devotion. His exceptional skill for making each character iconic is part of his memorable legacy. His deep talent and dedication to the industry will continue to be admired by coworkers, friends, and fans alike.

Back in the late ’70s and early ’80s, I graced the small screens as Peter Colcourt in “Kaz,” a gripping crime drama on CBS. Later, I stepped into the shoes of Ted Dinard for a stint on ABC’s “Dynasty.” Unfortunately, my character met an untimely end at the hands of Blake Carrington (John Forsythe), paving the way for the arrival of Alexis Carrington, played by none other than Joan Collins. Lastly, I took on the role of Coach Locke in “Days of Our Lives” on NBC, a part that kept me busy from 1986 to 1987.

Apart from the mentioned series, he was a guest star on numerous other programs such as How the West Was Won, Wonder Woman, Best of the West, Magnum P.I., The Dukes of Hazzard, Hart to Hart, It’s Your Move, Remington Steele, Dallas, Matlock, The King of Queens, Frasier, Criminal Minds, Ruby & Martin, Drop Dead Diva, True Blood, Castle, Reckless, Stranger Things, and Sense8.

1947 saw the birth of Withers in Binghamton, New York. A standout football player at Chenango Valley High School, he was granted a scholarship to play at Penn State University. Later, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in acting and directing from California State University Los Angeles, followed by a master’s degree in theater performance from Minnesota State University.

Initially, he gained recognition through advertisements, featuring in numerous national adverts for brands such as McDonald’s, Folger’s Coffee, Irish Spring soap, Tartar Control Crest toothpaste, and American Airlines, among others. It was only after several years had passed that he managed to secure roles on television series, eventually earning his Screen Actors Guild (SAG) membership.

In terms of his filmography, Withers has worked on projects like “Wild and Wooly”, “Something About Amelia”, “Her Life as a Man”, “Basic Training”, “Alex: The Life of a Child”, “The Ultimate Life”, “Turn Around Jake”, “The Phoenix Incident”, “Bolden” and “The Creatress”.

Beyond his beloved daughter, Withers also leaves behind his spouse, Haiyan Liu Withers. If you wish to honor his memory, consider making a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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2024-12-11 02:55