David Ogden Stiers maintained a diverse career as an actor, voice performer, and conductor that spanned over four decades. Born in Peoria in 1942, he transitioned from stage work in California and New York into a prolific television and film tenure, becoming recognized for his complex character portrayals and a significant body of voice-over contributions for major animation studios.
Early Training and Stage Work
Stiers attended North Eugene High School and the University of Oregon before moving to San Francisco. There, he performed with the California Shakespeare Theater and the improvisation ensemble The Committee. His talent caught the attention of John Houseman, who invited him to join the inaugural class at the Juilliard School from 1968 to 1972. Following his graduation, he helped establish the City Center Acting Company, appearing in productions such as The Three Sisters.
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In 1974, Stiers originated the role of Feldman in the Broadway production The Magic Show. His move to television included guest spots on programs like The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Kojak. He gained widespread recognition in 1977 joining the cast of M*A*S*H as Major Charles Emerson Winchester III, a role he played until 1983. This character, a sophisticated surgeon, earned him two Emmy Award nominations. Later television work included a recurring role as Reverend Gene Purdy on The Dead Zone and playing Oberoth on Stargate: Atlantis.
Voice Acting and Musical Pursuits
Stiers built an extensive resume as a voice actor, contributing to various documentary projects and feature films. His collaborations with Disney include roles in Beauty and the Beast, Pocahontas, and the Lilo & Stitch franchise. He also provided voices for the English versions of Studio Ghibli films including Porco Rosso and Spirited Away. In his later years, he served as the conductor of the Newport Symphony Orchestra, blending his professional interests in performance and music until his death in 2018.
Fast facts
- Born: 1942, Peoria, Illinois
- Died: 2018, Newport
- Notable Role: Major Charles Emerson Winchester III
- Education: Juilliard School
- Voice Role: Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast
- Voice Role: Dr. Jumba Jookiba in Lilo & Stitch
- Musical Occupation: Conductor
- Religion: Catholicism
Questions readers ask
Which television series did David Ogden Stiers appear in for six years?
He portrayed Major Charles Emerson Winchester III on the television series M*A*S*H from 1977 until the show concluded in 1983.
What musical role did Stiers hold in his later life?
He served as the conductor of the Newport Symphony Orchestra.
Achievements
- Notable work: Beauty and the Beast
- Notable work: Hoodwinked!
- Educated at Juilliard School and North Eugene High School
- Worked as actor, singer and conductor
