Hollywood mourns the loss of Ed Williams, the cherished actor best known for his deadpan scientist Ted Olson in Police Squad! and The Naked Gun series.
Williams passed away on October 2 in Los Angeles, confirmed by his granddaughter Stephanie Williams.
At 98, he leaves behind a legacy that spans decades of film and television comedy.
From Straight-Faced Comedy to Cult Classics
Williams first won audiences over with his straight-faced delivery opposite Leslie Nielsen on the cult-favorite ABC series Police Squad!.
He reprised the role of Ted Olson in The Naked Gun movies, where his “scientific demonstrations” became a recurring fan-favorite gag.
His subtle comedic timing and warm presence made him a standout performer alongside some of Hollywood’s most iconic comedians.
A Talent for Playing Men of the Cloth
Beyond comedy, Williams was frequently cast as a man of the cloth—reverends, priests, and ministers became a recurring part of his career.
One of his most memorable roles 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 Steve Martin and Diane Keaton romantic comedy.
Reflecting on his career, Williams told Matthew Worley of the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters that his agent “loved to put me in ministers’ parts.”
He recalled landing the Father of the Bride role almost serendipitously, noting how Southwest Airlines kindly moved his flight so he could audition.
“It was a pleasure doing it,” he said, “and I was grateful to be in it.”
A Career That Spanned More Than Four Decades
Williams’ other credits include Ratboy (1986), Nickel & Dime (1992), High Strung (1992), and Roger Corman’s Carnosaur (1993).
He also made guest appearances on beloved TV series like Cheers, MacGyver, Matlock, L.A. Law, Sisters, Father Dowling Mysteries, Hooperman, and House.
Even into his 90s, Williams continued acting, showing a passion for his craft that never waned.
Before Hollywood, he worked as a teacher at The Don Martin School of Radio and Television Arts and Sciences, giving him a strong foundation for his later screen career.
Memories of Working With Legends
Williams fondly remembered his time with Leslie Nielsen on The Naked Gun franchise, calling Nielsen “a consummate professional” and praising his talent and dedication.
Their on-screen chemistry helped cement Williams’ place in comedy history.
Family and Legacy
Williams is survived by his wife Nancy, their children, and grandchildren.
For generations of fans, his performances will continue to bring laughter and warmth, serving as a testament to a remarkable career that combined humor, humility, and heart.