Soap Opera Star Dead at 75

Doug Sheehan, known for his roles on the popular TV shows “General Hospital” and “Knots Landing,” died on June 29 at his home in Big Horn, Wyoming, with his wife by his side. The announcement was made by Kane Funeral Home. The cause of death has not been announced.

Born in Santa Monica, California, on April 27, 1949, Sheehan began his career in television with a guest appearance on a 1978 episode of “Charlie’s Angels.” His breakthrough came as lawyer Joe Kelly on the soap opera “General Hospital,” where he appeared in 205 episodes from 1979 to 1982. His performance on “General Hospital” led to a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Supporting Role in a Daytime Drama Series.

Sheehan’s next notable role was on the CBS series “Knots Landing,” a spinoff of “Dallas.” From 1983 to 1988, he portrayed reporter Ben Gibson in over 100 episodes. His character left the show in Season 8, heading to South America with no return.

In a 1989 appearance on “The Arsenio Hall Show,” Sheehan discussed the challenges of working in Hollywood, particularly the role of casting directors. He said, “Hollywood, as we all know, is not run by the producers, it’s run by casting directors. Casting directors never watch what you’re on…so I’ve spent my whole-time sort of breaking down the walls, with the daytime, the night time, and half hour comedy. They don’t know if I can do full-hour comedy yet, so I have to break through.”

While Sheehan’s career was mainly in television, he also appeared in three films: “10” in 1979, “Victor/Victoria” in 1982, and “Cops n Roberts” in 1995.

During the 1990s, Sheehan took on the role of Cher’s father, Mel Horowitz, in the television adaptation of “Clueless.” Additionally, he starred in the comedy “Day by Day,” created by Andy Borowitz and Gary David Goldberg, which aired for two seasons on NBC from 1988 to 1989. He had guest roles in various TV shows, including “Cheers,” “Columbo,” “MacGyver,” and “Diagnosis Murder.”

Sheehan’s last screen appearances were in 2003 on the shows “What I Like About You” and “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” where he played Sabrina’s father, Edward Gibson.

Doug Sheehan was married to Cate Abert from 1981 until his death. His contribution to television, spanning several decades and numerous genres, showcased his versatility and dedication to his craft.

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