Mark Withers, a distinguished actor celebrated for his roles in various beloved television series, has died at the age of 77.
Withers, known for his memorable role in Dynasty and other popular TV shows, succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the end of November, as the Toronto Sun reports.
The actor's passing was confirmed by his daughter, Jessie Withers, who noted that he died toward the conclusion of November after facing a challenging diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Known for his profound impact on audiences, he left behind a legacy cherished by family, friends, and fans alike.
The actor's journey into the world of entertainment began in 1975. His early roles included appearances in the TV series How the West Was Won and Kaz. It didn’t take long for Withers to become a recognized face on television screens across America.
Throughout the 1980s, he made significant contributions to several popular shows including Days of Our Lives, Dallas, L.A. Law, and Matlock. Withers also delighted audiences with his humorous characterizations in sitcoms like Frasier. Each performance showcased his versatility as an actor, leading to a career that spanned several decades.
Withers even captivated a new generation of fans when he appeared in a 2016 episode of the hit series Stranger Things. His ability to adapt to new roles and trends in television kept him relevant throughout his career. In his later years, Withers expanded his portfolio with roles in films such as The Phoenix Incident and Bolden.
Despite his extensive work on television, his final on-screen presence was in an uncredited role in the 2019 film The Creatress, solidifying a persistent dedication to the craft.
Before pursuing acting, Withers was an accomplished athlete, having earned an NCAA football scholarship at Penn State University. His transition from sports to entertainment marked the beginning of a remarkable career in showbusiness.
His entry into acting was serendipitous when he was discovered for an advertisement for McDonald’s. This early exposure led to opportunities in other advertising campaigns for major brands such as Folger’s Coffee and American Airlines. This experience in commercials paved the way for his successful transition from advertisement roles to larger acting projects in Hollywood.
Withers is survived by his family, including his daughter Jessie and his wife, Haiyan Liu Withers. Jessie Withers expressed sentiments to Variety, highlighting her father’s resilience during his illness. She described his approach to his health challenges as being met with fortitude and grace. These personal qualities, she stated, were evident in both his personal and professional life.
Jessie praised his lasting impression and highlighted the warmth and humor he brought to each role, ensuring that his talent will not soon be forgotten.
Colleagues, friends, and fans from around the world will remember Withers for his commitment to his profession. His contributions to the entertainment industry remain invaluable. Withers’ roles have inspired numerous aspiring actors and provided entertainment for countless viewers. His dedication to his craft was unparalleled, leaving a void in the industry.
As fans and the entertainment community remember Mark Withers, they will reflect on his inspiring journey from the sports fields to the Hollywood sets, cherishing the many memories he created on screen.
