The entertainment industry is grieving the passing of Mark Withers, a veteran television actor who had a career lasting more than 40 years. At the age of 77, Withers sadly passed away and is most fondly remembered for his standout performance in the classic 1980s primetime soap opera Dynasty. His daughter, Jessie Withers, confirmed his death, which came after a brave fight with pancreatic cancer, through a statement published by Variety on December 6, 2024.
Early Career And Breakthrough Role
Mark Withers, born in Binghamton, New York, started his acting career in the 1970s. He entered the entertainment world by appearing in commercials and taking on guest roles in various TV shows. Early in his career, he was featured in well-known series like How the West Was Won, Kaz, and Wonder Woman. These early roles showcased his adaptability as an actor, proving his ability to move between different genres and formats effortlessly.
Mark Withers truly rose to fame with his role on Dynasty. In 1981, he was cast as Ted Dinard, a character who played a significant role in the soap opera’s trailblazing depiction of LGBTQ+ characters on television. Ted Dinard was the romantic partner of Steven Carrington, portrayed by Al Corley, and their relationship was one of the earliest examples of LGBTQ+ characters appearing in a primetime network drama without the usual sensationalism. Reflecting on the significance of the role, Withers once remarked, “The character was the gay lover of Steven Carrington, played by Al Corley. The two were among the first LGBTQ+ characters featured on U.S. television without ‘sensationalism.'”
This role was just the starting point of a flourishing and varied career in television for Withers.
A Diverse Television Career
After his time on Dynasty, Mark Withers continued to build his career by making guest appearances on numerous hit shows throughout the 1980s. During this time, he appeared on well-known series such as Magnum, P.I., The Dukes of Hazzard, Remington Steele, Hill Street Blues, and Days of Our Lives. He also had a guest role on Dallas, another highly popular primetime soap opera, which further established his standing as a talented and dependable actor in the television industry.
After enjoying a thriving career in the 1980s, Mark Withers chose to step away from acting for much of the 1990s. This break gave him the chance to retreat from the public eye and focus on his personal life. However, his passion for acting never faded, and he made his return to television in the early 2000s with guest roles on popular sitcoms like Frasier and The King of Queens.
In the last decade, Withers continued to showcase his talent with appearances in various acclaimed shows. He guest-starred on Drop Dead Diva, True Blood, Castle, and even made an appearance in the nostalgic phenomenon Stranger Things, where he played Gary, the coroner in Hawkins, Indiana. Though he became more selective about his projects, Withers remained a familiar and cherished presence on screen, consistently delivering performances filled with charm, humor, and depth.
A Full Career
Throughout his extensive career, Mark Withers frequently shared his gratitude for the opportunities he had and the colleagues he worked alongside. In an interview with E! News, he reflected on his journey in the entertainment world, saying, “I guess you could go for the million-dollar stuff. Me, I didn’t. I guess I would have liked to be a little more famous, but the reality is that when I look back on it, and I see all the wonderful people I worked with, I’m just, wow. I’m a pretty lucky actor, I really am.” These words highlight the humility and sense of fulfillment that defined his career—a career shaped not by chasing fame or wealth but by his genuine love for acting.
Mark Withers: A Legacy
Mark Withers’ influence on the entertainment world went well beyond his memorable performances. His daughter, Jessie Withers, reflected on the enduring impact he made, especially his courage and grace in battling his illness. In her statement, she shared, “He confronted his illness with the same strength and dignity he brought to his craft. To creating a legacy of warmth, humor, and dedication, along with his remarkable ability to make every role unforgettable.” Her words emphasize not only his professional achievements but also the admirable qualities he embodied in life.
Jessie also highlighted that her father’s dedication and talent would remain cherished by his friends, colleagues, and fans. Along with his daughter, Mark Withers is survived by his wife, Haiyan Liu Withers.
As admirers and fellow actors look back on his outstanding career, it’s evident that Mark Withers’ legacy will live on. He will be remembered not just for his groundbreaking roles but also for the sincerity and passion he infused into every character he brought to life.
