Ted Cassidy

Ted Cassidy was an American actor who is best known for his role as Lurch in The Addams Family, as well as for his deep voice in various narrations and character dubbing. His tall stature and unique voice made him a memorable figure in film and television.

Personal and Family Life

Ted Cassidy was born on July 31, 1932, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and raised in Philippi, West Virginia. He was married to Margaret Helen Jesse from June 14, 1956, until their divorce in September 1975. The couple had two children, Cameron and Sean Cassidy. His father, Ellwood Cassidy, and his mother, Emily Cassidy, were an essential part of his upbringing.

Career

Throughout his three-decade career, Ted Cassidy portrayed many characters, earning respect and popularity in the entertainment industry. He is particularly remembered for his role as Lurch, where his iconic line, “You rang?”, became famous. In addition to acting, he offered his deep voice for various animations and narrations, further showcasing his talent.

Death and Legacy

Ted Cassidy passed away on January 16, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, due to complications from heart surgery. After his death, his live-in girlfriend had his remains cremated and buried in the backyard of their home in Woodland Hills. His contributions to film and television have left a lasting legacy, particularly his unforgettable portrayal of Lurch.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid 1969-09-23 Harvey Logan
Flash Gordon: The Greatest Adventure of All 1982-07-16 Prince Thun (voice)
The Slams 1973-09-26 Glover
Poor Pretty Eddie 1975-06-01 Keno
Mackenna’s Gold 1969-03-18 Hachita
Jack and the Beanstalk 1967-02-26 The Giant (voice)
Planet Earth 1974-04-23 Isiah
Genesis II 1973-03-23 Isiah
Thunder County 1974-01-01 Renzo Gambini
The Limit 1972-11-10 Big Donnie
Halloween with the New Addams Family 1977-10-30 Lurch
The Return of the Incredible Hulk 1977-11-27 Narrator / Hulk (voice)
The Intruder 1975-01-01 Mr. Peterson
Dr. Strange 1978-09-06 Demon Balzaroth (voice)
Catch the Black Sunshine 1972-01-01 Striker
Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man 1943-03-12 Big Man
The Addams Family 1964-09-18 Lurch
The New Adventures of Huckleberry Finn 1968-09-15 Injun Joe