Ted Knight was an American actor best known for his role as Ted Baxter on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and for his part in Too Close for Comfort and Caddyshack. His comedic talent and recognizable voice made a significant impact on television and film.
Personal and Family Life
Ted Knight was born on December 7, 1923, in Terryville, Connecticut, into a Polish-American family. He married Dorothy Knight on September 24, 1948, and they had three children: Elyse, Ted Jr., and Eric. Knight served in the military during World War II as a combat engineer, which instilled in him a sense of discipline and dedication that he later applied to his acting career.
Career
Before becoming famous, Ted Knight worked for many years in various television roles, mostly portraying villains and minor characters. His big break came when he was cast as Ted Baxter, a bumbling news anchor on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which catapulted him to stardom. He later starred in his own series, Too Close for Comfort, which further showcased his comedic abilities and solidified his status as a beloved television figure.
Death and Legacy
Ted Knight passed away on August 26, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, after a long battle with cancer. He was remembered for his distinctive voice and comedic talent, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. His work on television continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow actors alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Caddyshack | 1980-07-25 | Judge Smails |
| The Mary Tyler Moore Show | 1970-09-19 | Ted Baxter |
| Too Close for Comfort | 1980-11-11 | Henry Rush |
| Psycho | 1960-06-22 | Policeman in Hallway Opening Door (uncredited) |
| Countdown | 1967-08-20 | Walter Larson |
| Cage of Evil | 1960-07-01 | Lt. Dan Ivers |
| Super Friends | 1973-09-08 | Narrator (voice) |
| Gunsmoke | 1955-09-10 | Jay Rabb |
| McHale’s Navy | 1962-10-22 | Various |