In a heartfelt farewell to the world of television, Mark Withers, celebrated for his striking performances in hit shows like 'Dynasty' and 'Stranger Things,' has sadly passed away at the age of 77. His daughter, Jessie Withers, confirmed that he succumbed to pancreatic cancer on November 22, a devastating loss for family, friends, and fans alike.

Withers’ career in television was truly prolific, blossoming in the 1980s and featuring appearances in a myriad of popular series, including 'Matlock,' 'Magnum, P.I.,' 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' 'Dallas,' and 'L.A. Law.' However, one of his most memorable roles was as Ted Dinard, the boyfriend and confidante to Steven Carrington, in the iconic soap opera 'Dynasty.' This was a groundbreaking role for LGBTQ+ representation on television, particularly at a time when gay characters were rarely portrayed with such depth and authenticity.

Reflecting on his role in 'Dynasty,' Withers noted in a 2018 interview on the "Hollywood and Beyond" podcast that the show's creators were bold in their depiction of Ted and Steven's relationship, arguing that it was ahead of its time: “They were brilliant in pushing the envelope,” he said, emphasizing their commitment to an honest portrayal without adding unnecessary scandal or humor.

In more recent years, Withers made a notable return to the screen as coroner Gary in the ever-popular Netflix series 'Stranger Things,’ which continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling narrative and characters. His career also included guest appearances on well-known shows such as 'Frasier,' 'Criminal Minds,' 'Sense8,' 'Castle,' and 'Drop Dead Diva,' further showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Jessie Withers expressed her pride and admiration for her father in a statement to Variety, describing him as a man who faced illness with remarkable strength and dignity. "Mark’s enduring talent and commitment to the industry will be fondly remembered by colleagues, friends, and fans alike," she stated, touching on the warmth, humor, and dedication that he brought to both his life and work.

Mark Withers leaves behind a legacy that transcends his impressive body of work; he will be remembered not only for his unforgettable roles and commitment to acting but also for his influence on LGBTQ+ representation in media. As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, they also celebrate the groundbreaking path he paved for future generations.