Veteran actor Jon Cypher, best known for playing Prince Christopher opposite Julie Andrews in the original 1957 television production of Cinderella and Police Chief Fletcher Daniels on Hill Street Blues, has died at the age of 94.
Cypher died on August 3 at his home in Central Point, Oregon, with his wife of 40 years, Carol Rosin, by his side, according to a family announcement. His cause of death was not disclosed.
Cypher enjoyed a long and varied career in television, film and theater. He became widely recognized for his role as the politically ambitious Police Chief Fletcher Daniels on the acclaimed series Hill Street Blues, appearing throughout the show’s run.
He later portrayed General Marcus Craig on Major Dad and made appearances in numerous popular television series, including Dynasty, Knots Landing, As the World Turns, Santa Barbara, Law & Order, JAG and Walker, Texas Ranger.
One of the most notable early highlights of Cypher’s career came in 1957, when he played Prince Christopher opposite Julie Andrews in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s live CBS broadcast of Cinderella. The production became an important moment in television history and helped establish Cypher as a familiar face to audiences.
Cypher also appeared on the big screen, including a role as Man-At-Arms in the 1987 fantasy film Masters of the Universe.
His talents extended beyond television and film. Cypher had an impressive Broadway résumé, with credits in productions such as Man of La Mancha, The Great White Hope, 1776, Coco and Big.
Across a career spanning decades, Jon Cypher became a respected character actor whose work reached generations of television, film and theater audiences.
He was 94.
Rest in peace, Jon Cypher.