The curtain has fallen on the long and vibrant life of Ed Williams, the character actor immortalized as the brilliantly deadpan scientist Ted Olson in “The Naked Gun” series. At 98 years old, Williams was one of the last surviving stars from the iconic comedy, and his passing evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of Hollywood humor. His career was a masterclass in the power of a supporting player to steal a scene with nothing more than a perfectly delivered, absurd line.
Williams’s path to comedy stardom was anything but direct. His was a life of many acts: a Navy veteran, a radio professional, and a dedicated broadcasting teacher. This wealth of real-world experience gave him a grounded presence that made his comedic performances all the more hilarious. When he finally transitioned to screen acting, he brought a teacher’s clarity and a veteran’s discipline to his roles, most famously as the gadget-obsessed Ted Olson.
In “Police Squad!” and “The Naked Gun,” his chemistry with the late Leslie Nielsen was impeccable. While Nielsen played the bumbling straight man, Williams was the earnest genius living in a world of his own bizarre logic. He didn’t just act the part; he helped create it, designing the outlandish contraptions his character would demonstrate. His straight-faced explanation of the Earth’s crust as “rock” remains a classic moment in film comedy.
Though he will always be cherished for that role, his acting range was impressive. He guest-starred on a who’s who of classic television, from “L.A. Law” to “MacGyver,” and became the go-to actor for playing reverends in films like “Father of the Bride.” His ability to shift from comedy to drama to horror showcased a versatility that kept him working steadily for decades, earning the respect of his peers and the affection of audiences.
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Ed Williams retired from screen acting in 2010 but continued to share his voice with the world in radio productions until recently. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and a family that includes his wife of many years, his two sons, and his grandchildren. As we remember him, we celebrate not just the actor, but the full and remarkable life of a man who served, taught, and entertained with equal passion.
