Don Adams was an American actor best known for his roles as Maxwell Smart in “Get Smart,” the voice of Inspector Gadget, and various characters in television and film. He was born on April 13, 1923, in Manhattan, New York City, and passed away on September 25, 2005, in Beverly Grove, Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Don Adams was born as Donald James Yarmy to a Hungarian Jewish father and a mother of German and Irish descent. He had two siblings, Gloria and Dick Yarmy. Adams served in the U.S. Marines during World War II, where he contracted malaria on the island of Guadalcanal. He was married three times and had seven children, including Cecily, Stacey, Sean, and Caroline.
Career Highlights
After winning a talent contest in 1948, Adams started his television career and became famous for his comedic role as the inept secret agent Maxwell Smart in the hit series “Get Smart.” Beyond acting, he also directed television episodes and appeared in various Broadway productions. His distinct voice and catchphrases became iconic in American pop culture, contributing to his long-lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Death and Legacy
Adams died on September 25, 2005, due to complications from a lung infection. He is remembered as a beloved comedian and versatile actor, whose work continues to entertain audiences. His contributions to television and voice acting have left an enduring impact, especially with characters like Maxwell Smart and Inspector Gadget.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Nude Bomb | 1980-05-09 | Maxwell Smart |
| Get Smart, Again! | 1989-02-26 | Maxwell Smart |
| Jimmy the Kid | 1982-11-12 | Harry Walker |
| Murder Can Hurt You! | 1980-05-21 | Narrator (voice) |
| Inspector Gadget Saves Christmas | 1992-12-04 | Inspector Gadget (voice) |
| Inspector Gadget | 1983-09-05 | Inspector Gadget (voice) |
| Get Smart | 1965-09-18 | Maxwell Smart |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | William Robinson |