Hollywood is mourning the loss of Ed Williams, the beloved actor who brought laughter to generations with his deadpan performances in Police Squad! and The Naked Gun films.
Williams passed away on October 2 at the age of 98, his granddaughter Stephanie Williams confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.
A Comedic Touch That Captured Audiences
Williams became a familiar face to comedy fans with his straight-faced delivery alongside Leslie Nielsen in the cult-favorite ABC series Police Squad!.
He reprised his role as the earnest scientist Ted Olson in The Naked Gun movies, where his “scientific demonstrations” became a beloved running gag that left audiences in stitches.
A Versatile Career Beyond Comedy
While comedy was his forte, Williams frequently portrayed reverends, priests, and ministers throughout his long career.
One standout performance came in 1991’s Father of the Bride, where he officiated the wedding of Annie Banks (Kimberly Williams) and Bryan MacKenzie (George Newbern) in the classic romantic comedy starring Steve Martin and Diane Keaton.
His warm presence and impeccable timing made him a staple on both the big and small screens for over four decades.
Memorable Roles Across Film and Television
Williams’s film credits included Ratboy (1986), Nickel & Dime (1992), High Strung (1992), and Roger Corman’s Carnosaur (1993).
On television, he appeared in Madame’s Place, Cheers, MacGyver, Hooperman, Matlock, LA Law, Sisters, Father Dowling Mysteries, and House.
Remarkably, he continued acting well into his 90s, demonstrating a lifelong dedication to his craft.
From Teacher to Screen Star
Before moving to Hollywood with his wife Nancy in 1955, Williams worked as a teacher at The Don Martin School of Radio and Television Arts and Sciences.
Reflecting on his career in an interview with Matthew Worley of the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters, Williams chuckled about his recurring minister roles: “My agent loved to put me in ministers’ parts… so I got stuck on a lot of ministers for a long time there.”
Highlights and Fond Memories
His role in Father of the Bride came about serendipitously.
Williams shared that he had a flight booked to visit his mother but was asked to stay and read for the part.
“Luckily Southwest was very kind; they moved the flight and I read for them and I got the part,” he recalled.
He described the experience on set as “a pleasure” and was grateful for the opportunity.
When discussing working with Leslie Nielsen on The Naked Gun, Williams expressed admiration: “He was a consummate professional.
He really knew how to do it and do it well, and I have nothing but respect for him.”
Survived by Family
Ed Williams leaves behind his wife Nancy, their children, and grandchildren.
His legacy as a talented, versatile actor and a beloved figure in Hollywood comedy will be remembered fondly by fans around the world.