Hollywood mourns the loss of veteran television actor Mark Withers, who passed away at the age of 77 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. His daughter, Jessie Withers, shared the news with Variety on December 6, highlighting her father’s strength and dignity throughout his illness. She praised him for creating a legacy filled with warmth, humor, and a remarkable ability to leave a lasting impression on audiences through his performances.
Jessie noted that Mark’s talent and dedication to his craft earned him fond memories from colleagues, friends, and fans. A native of Binghamton, New York, Mark launched his onscreen career in the 1970s with appearances in commercials and various television shows like How the West Was Won, Kaz, and Wonder Woman.
His breakout role came in 1981 when he joined the cast of the iconic series Dynasty as Ted Dinard, the gay lover of Steven Carrington, portrayed by Al Corley. This character was notable for being one of the first LGBTQ+ representations on U.S. television, portrayed without sensationalism during the show’s inaugural season.
Mark Withers leaves behind a rich legacy in the world of television. His contributions helped pave the way for more authentic LGBTQ+ narratives in media, setting a standard for representation that resonates today. Though his presence will be deeply missed, it inspires hope for continued progress in making the entertainment industry more inclusive.
Summary: Veteran actor Mark Withers has passed away at the age of 77 after battling pancreatic cancer. Known for his memorable role on the original ’80s series Dynasty, Withers is remembered for his talent and contributions to LGBTQ+ representation in television. His legacy continues to inspire hope for authenticity in media.