James Sikking, the actor renowned for his roles as a tough police lieutenant on “Hill Street Blues” and the compassionate father on “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” has passed away at the age of 90. His publicist, Cynthia Snyder, confirmed that he died from complications related to dementia.
Born on March 5, 1934, in Los Angeles as the youngest of five children, Sikking’s early acting career included an uncredited role in Roger Corman’s “Five Guns West” and a minor part in an episode of “Perry Mason.” Throughout the 1970s, he appeared in numerous popular TV series such as “Mission: Impossible,” “M.A.S.H.,” “The F.B.I.,” “The Rockford Files,” “Hawaii Five-O,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Eight is Enough,” and “Little House on the Prairie.”
In 1981, he began starring in “Hill Street Blues,” a groundbreaking drama series that provided a fresh take on the traditional police procedural genre. Sikking played Lt. Howard Hunter, a clean-cut Vietnam War veteran leading the Emergency Action Team in an unnamed city. Although primarily a drama, Sikking’s character added a comedic element with his uptight demeanor and quirks. He based his portrayal on a drill instructor he once had during basic training.
Despite low initial ratings, NBC continued to air “Hill Street Blues,” which ultimately ran until 1987. Sikking’s performance earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama in 1984. The show was notable for its gritty set design and multiple intertwining storylines, requiring both actors and audiences to stay highly engaged. Sikking said in a 2014 Parade.com interview that the dedication and enthusiasm of those involved contributed significantly to the show’s quality.
Apart from “Hill Street Blues,” Sikking appeared as Captain Styles in “Star Trek III: The Search for Spock” in 1984. Admittedly not keen on the sci-fi genre, Sikking later recognized its impact as he frequently signed memorabilia related to the film.
After the conclusion of “Hill Street Blues,” he reunited with creator Steven Bochco for nearly 100 episodes of “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” featuring Neil Patrick Harris. Sikking married Florine Caplan, and together they had two children and four grandchildren.
Entering semi-retirement by the 2000s, Sikking took on select roles such as guest appearances on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and roles in romantic comedies like “Fever Pitch” and “Made of Honor.” His final acting credits were a guest spot on “The Closer” and a role in the film “Just an American,” both in 2012.
Sikking continued to engage in charitable endeavors and participated in celebrity golf tournaments. Reflecting on his career and life in a 2014 startrek.com interview, Sikking expressed contentment with his life and accomplishments. He summarized his life experience by saying, “The condiment of my life is good fortune.”