Charles Kimbrough, a talented actor who earned multiple award nominations during his illustrious career, has sadly passed away at the age of 86. Kimbrough was known for his iconic role as Jim Dial, a strait-laced news anchor, opposite Candice Bergen on the hit CBS sitcom Murphy Brown. The show, which aired for 10 seasons between 1988 and 1998, was a staple of American television, and Kimbrough’s character became a beloved and recognizable figure.
Throughout his career, Kimbrough received numerous accolades, including an Emmy nomination in 1990 for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series for his work on Murphy Brown. He also reprised his role as Jim Dial in the 2018 reboot of the show. In addition to his work on television, Kimbrough had a successful career on stage, earning a Tony nomination in 1971 for his performance in the Broadway production of Company, a Stephen Sondheim musical.
Charles Kimbrough (Via Charles Kimbrough/Twitter)
Kimbrough’s death was confirmed by his son, John Kimbrough, who spoke to The Associated Press on Sunday. He died on January 11 in Culver City, California. The actor’s wife, Beth Howland, who played the role of Vera on the CBS sitcom Alice, passed away in 2016. Kimbrough was married to Howland in 2002, more than a decade after his divorce from his first wife, Mary Jane Kimbrough, who died in 2007. He is survived by his sister, Linda Kimbrough; his son, John Kimbrough; and his stepdaughter, Holly Howland.
In addition to his work on television and stage, Kimbrough also lent his voice to the 1996 Disney animated film The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, where he played the role of a gargoyle named Victor. Throughout his career, Kimbrough was known for his versatility and range, effortlessly transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles.
Kimbrough’s passing serves as a reminder of the legacy he left behind, and the countless characters he brought to life on screen and stage. His iconic role as Jim Dial on Murphy Brown will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most beloved and memorable characterizations in television history.
