Tom Poston was an American actor who is best known for his roles in television comedies and films such as “Newhart,” “The Bob Newhart Show,” and “Mork & Mindy.” With a career spanning several decades, he became a beloved figure in the world of comedy.
Personal and Family Life
Tom Poston was born on October 17, 1921, in Columbus, Ohio. He had a diverse personal life, having been married multiple times. His first wife was Doris Sward, followed by Jean Sullivan, and later, he was married to Wilma Kay Hudson twice. His final marriage was to actress Suzanne Pleshette, which lasted until his death in 2007.
Career
Poston’s acting career began on Broadway and transitioned to television where he found comedic success. He was recognized for his expressive performances and frequent collaborations with Bob Newhart. Despite facing challenges in the film industry, he remained a prominent guest actor on numerous television shows, making people laugh with his unique charm and wit.
Death and Legacy
Tom Poston passed away on April 30, 2007, in Los Angeles, California, due to respiratory failure. His death came shortly before his wife Suzanne Pleshette, who died in January 2008. Poston’s contributions to comedy have left a lasting impact, and he is remembered for his memorable characters and entertaining performances throughout his career.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Beethoven’s 5th | 2003-12-02 | John Giles / Selig |
| The Story of Us | 1999-10-14 | Harry |
| Up the Academy | 1980-06-06 | Sgt. Skip Sisson |
| City That Never Sleeps | 1953-06-12 | Detective |
| Christmas with the Kranks | 2004-11-24 | Father Zabriskie |
| The Old Dark House | 1963-10-30 | Tom Penderel |
| Cold Turkey | 1971-02-19 | Mr. Stopworth |
| Zotz! | 1962-10-03 | Prof. Jonathan Jones |
| The Happy Hooker | 1975-05-08 | J. Arthur Conrad |
| Save the Dog! | 1988-03-19 | |
| Soldier in the Rain | 1963-11-27 | Lieutenant Magee |
| A Guide for the Married Woman | 1978-10-13 | Marty Gibson |
| The Christmas Tree | 1958-12-14 | Tom |
| Carbon Copy | 1981-08-06 | Reverend Hayworth |
| A Quiet Little Neighborhood, a Perfect Little Murder | 1990-10-04 | Don Corman |
| The Tempest | 1960-02-13 | Trinculo |
| Krippendorf’s Tribe | 1998-02-27 | Gordon Hargrove |
| The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement | 2004-08-06 | Lord Palimore |
| Rabbit Test | 1978-04-09 | Minister |
| Fame | 1978-01-02 | Car Salesman |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Mickey O’Day |
| The Simpsons | 1989-12-17 | Capital City Goofball (voice) |
| Home Improvement | 1991-09-17 | Clerk |
| Touched by an Angel | 1994-09-21 | Ed Yablonsky |
| Mork & Mindy | 1978-09-14 | Franklin Delano Bickley |
| Family Matters | 1989-09-22 | Mr. Looney |