Charles Kimbrough, best-known for his role as anchorman Jim Dial on CBS' Murphy Brown, died on January 11 in Culver City, California, according to his son.
Kimbrough began his career in the theatre, then moved on to film and television, mostly in supporting roles. Continue reading to learn more about his life and career.
Charles Kimbrough, an actor, has died at the age of 86.
John Kimbrough, Charles' son, received the news of his father's death. "He grew up with people that he loved. They shared this love with him," John said, remembering his father.
"Somehow he was able to convey that feeling to audiences, even as the guys he played kept it all inside." "As a young actor, he played a wide variety of characters who were much more dynamic," he added.
Charles graduated from Indiana University with a degree in music and theatre in the late 1960s and earned a Tony Award nomination for the 1970 production of the Steven Sondheim musical Company.
After appearing in a number of Broadway roles, he co-starred in Sunday in the Park With George, Candide, Next Year, The Merchant of Venice, and Accent on Youth. In 2012, he co-starred in the Harvey revival with Jim Parsons.
Murphy Brown has shot Kimbrough to fame.
In 1975, he made his television debut with a guest appearance in CBS' action crime drama Kojak. He has since made guest appearances in GreatPerformances, Tales of the Unexpected, Pinky and the Brain, Love Boat: The Next Wave, and Mighty Max.
Kimbrough's breakthrough came to light in 1988 when he was cast in CBS' comedy series Murphy Brown, which ran from 1998 to 2018. In 2018, the actor reprised his role in the series reboot for three episodes.
'I'm fortunate to be able to portray jackasses of some sort or another.' Kimbrough commented on his career in 2012.
Actors Get Tributes
Kimbrough was a trusted professional who worked with him on the 2018 Murphy Brown rebirth. RIP, sir, said writer Gina Ippolito.
"RIP Charles Kimbrough, one of the many vital members of Sunday in the Park's OG cast. His dual performance as Jules/Bob Greenberg is horribly sad at the same time as it is utterly hilarious."
Another tweeted, "RIP #CharlesKimbrough You were the reason I started tapping the tops of soda can lids before opening them." I still do it to this day and remember you every time I do."
Our condolences to the family of Charles Kimbrough. May his soul rest in peace!
