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Ed Williams, Deadpan ‘Police Squad!’ and ‘Naked Gun’ Mainstay, Dies at 98

Family members said he died Oct. 2 in Los Angeles, capping a second act that followed nearly three decades teaching broadcasting.

Overview

  • His granddaughter, Stephanie Williams, confirmed the death to The Hollywood Reporter, after a nephew noted it on social media; no cause was disclosed.
  • Williams originated lab scientist Ted Olson on ABC’s short‑lived Police Squad! in 1982 and reprised the role in all three original Naked Gun films.
  • He and Leslie Nielsen were the only actors from the TV series brought back for the feature trilogy released in 1988, 1991 and 1994.
  • Before returning to acting, he taught broadcasting and speech at Los Angeles City College, retiring in 1989 after 28 years, following earlier work at the Don Martin School.
  • Frequently cast as clergy, he officiated the wedding in Father of the Bride and logged numerous TV and film credits into his 90s; survivors include his wife Nancy, sons Fred and Ian, and grandchildren Stephanie and Maureen.