Charles C. Stevenson Jr., 'Will & Grace' Actor, Dies at 95
Charles C. Stevenson Jr., the veteran character actor best remembered for his endearing portrayal of Smitty the bartender on the hit NBC sitcom Will & Grace, has died. He was 95. Stevenson passed away on January 19 in Camarillo, California, from natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt performances that spanned decades and genres.
A Late-Blooming Star in Hollywood
Stevenson's journey to stardom was anything but conventional. Born and raised in Piedmont, California, he served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before pursuing higher education. Graduating with an English degree from the University of California, Berkeley, Stevenson initially channeled his passions into philanthropy rather than the spotlight. He dedicated years to fundraising, chapter development, and public awareness campaigns for organizations like Project Hope and the Epilepsy Foundation.
It wasn't until his 50s that the acting bug truly bit. Relocating to Los Angeles in the 1960s, Stevenson immersed himself in the entertainment industry's charitable side. He collaborated on public service announcements and community events alongside luminaries such as James Stewart, Jack Lemmon, and Henry Winkler. These connections likely paved the way for his eventual on-screen debut, though it took until age 76 for him to land his first substantial role.
That breakthrough came in 2008 with Disney's family film Snow Buddies, where he played a sheriff. From there, Stevenson's career snowballed, transforming him into a go-to character actor for authoritative yet warm figures—often clergymen, lawmen, or everyday everymen.
Iconic Role as Smitty on 'Will & Grace'
Stevenson's most iconic role arrived in 1998 when he joined the cast of Will & Grace as Smitty, the no-nonsense bartender at the local hangout. Appearing across multiple seasons, including the show's final run when he was 89, Smitty became a fan favorite for his dry wit and unflappable demeanor. The character's interactions with leads Debra Messing, Eric McCormack, Sean Hayes, and Megan Mullally added layers of humor to the groundbreaking sitcom, which tackled LGBTQ+ themes with sharp comedy.
Reflecting on his father's tenure, son Scott Stevenson shared in a family statement: "Dad's role as Smitty was pure joy for him. He loved being the steady presence amid the chaos." Stevenson's longevity on the series underscored his reliability and charm, making him a staple in one of television's most celebrated ensembles.
Diverse Roles Across Film and TV
Beyond Will & Grace, Stevenson's resume reads like a highlight reel of late-20th and early-21st-century pop culture. He guest-starred on medical drama House M.D. (often stylized as Dr. House), bringing gravitas to procedural episodes. In film, he popped up in the sci-fi blockbuster Men in Black, the indie darling Ghost World starring Thora Birch and Scarlett Johansson, and lighter fare like Bunheads and Glee.
Stevenson had a particular knack for ecclesiastical roles—preachers, priests, and pastors—who were either marrying couples or delivering eulogies. As he once quipped to interviewers, his job often boiled down to "marrying or burying people." Directors frequently relied on him to improvise heartfelt monologues, bridging scripted gaps with authentic emotion. "The panic-stricken director would invariably come to him to beg him to find a way to fill in unscripted space," Scott recounted. "He got pretty good at that."
Other credits include the long-running mystery series Murder, She Wrote, where his appearances added folksy wisdom to Angela Lansbury's sleuthing adventures. These roles, though supporting, showcased Stevenson's versatility and timing, earning him quiet admiration from peers and audiences alike.
Personal Life and Lasting Impact
Stevenson's personal life was as rich as his professional one. He was married twice: first to Barbara Keller, with whom he had children Charles III and Valerie; and later to the late Hollywood agent and manager Joy Stevenson, mother to Catherine, Scott, and William. He is survived by his five children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.
Even in retirement, Stevenson's influence lingered. His work with nonprofits continued to inspire younger actors to blend art with activism. In an era where streaming revivals dominate headlines—like the 2017-2020 reboot of Will & Grace—Stevenson's original run remains a touchstone for inclusive storytelling.
Legacy in a Changing Entertainment Landscape
At a time when Hollywood grapples with ageism and diversity, Stevenson's story stands out. Starting late in life, he defied odds to become a fixture in major productions, proving that talent knows no timeline. His passing comes amid a wave of tributes from former co-stars and fans, who recall his kindness on set and generosity off it.
As Will & Grace creator Max Mutchnick noted in a social media post, "Charles was the heart of the bar—steady, funny, and always there with a quip. We'll miss him dearly." Stevenson's contributions extended beyond acting; his Navy service and advocacy work painted a portrait of a man committed to service in all forms.
In Camarillo, where he spent his final years, locals remember him as approachable and engaged, often sharing stories from his eclectic career. Funeral arrangements are private, per family wishes, but a public memorial is planned for later this year.
Charles C. Stevenson Jr.'s death marks the end of an era for character actors who elevated ensembles without seeking the spotlight. His filmography, though not exhaustive, reminds us of the power of persistence and presence. For fans of Will & Grace and beyond, Smitty's barstool will forever feel a little emptier.
(Word count: 742)
