7 Shocking Facts About Mark Withers: The Dynasty Star Who Made A Quiet Comeback In Stranger Things

The world of classic television and modern streaming mourned the loss of a familiar face in late 2024. Mark Fred Withers, a veteran American actor whose career spanned five decades, from iconic 80s dramas to critically acclaimed Netflix hits, passed away at the age of 77. This article, updated in December 2025, details the remarkable life and career of an actor who navigated Hollywood's changing landscape, leaving a legacy defined by warmth, humor, and a pioneering role that was decades ahead of its time. His most memorable roles—Ted Dinard on the original *Dynasty* and Coroner Gary on *Stranger Things*—bookended a long and varied career that showcased his versatility. Withers’ passing from pancreatic cancer was confirmed by his daughter, Jessie Withers, bringing a quiet end to the life of a performer who was a constant presence in television history.

Mark Withers: A Complete Biography and Profile

Mark Fred Withers was an American actor celebrated for his extensive work across television and film, known for his distinctive presence in both dramatic and comedic roles.

• Full Name: Mark Fred Withers
• Date of Birth: June 25, 1947
• Place of Birth: Binghamton, New York, USA
• Date of Death: November 22, 2024
• Age at Death: 77
• Cause of Death: Pancreatic Cancer
• Education: NCAA Football Scholarship to Penn State University; Studied Acting and Directing at California State University
• Best Known Roles: Ted Dinard on *Dynasty* (1981); Peter Colcourt on *Kaz* (1978–1979); Coroner Gary on *Stranger Things* (2016)
• Notable TV Appearances: *Magnum, P.I.*, *The Dukes of Hazzard*, *Wonder Woman*, *Hart to Hart*, *Frasier*, *True Blood*, *Criminal Minds*, *Castle*, *Drop Dead Diva*, *Sense8*
• Daughter: Jessie Withers

From NCAA Football to Hollywood's Small Screen

Mark Withers' journey to the bright lights of Hollywood was far from typical, starting on the gridiron rather than the stage. Born in Binghamton, New York, his initial path was paved with athletic promise. He was a keen athlete in his youth, a talent that earned him a prestigious NCAA football scholarship to Penn State University. This early discipline and physical presence would later inform his on-screen roles. However, the pull of the performing arts proved stronger, leading him to shift his focus. After his time in collegiate sports, Withers pursued his passion for acting and directing, studying at California State University. This formal training laid the groundwork for a career that would see him become one of the most recognizable character actors of the late 20th century. His first regularly scheduled television role came in the one-season legal drama *Kaz* (1978–1979), where he played Peter Colcourt across 23 episodes, establishing his early reputation in the industry. This role was a crucial stepping stone, quickly followed by guest spots on popular series like *Wonder Woman* and *The Greatest American Hero*.

The Groundbreaking Role of Ted Dinard on Dynasty

The role that cemented Mark Withers' place in television history and is still discussed decades later is that of Ted Dinard on the iconic prime-time soap opera, *Dynasty*. In the show’s inaugural season in 1981, Withers played Ted Dinard, the ill-fated boyfriend of Steven Carrington (played by Al Corley). This storyline was groundbreaking for its time, as Steven Carrington was one of the first openly gay characters on a major American television series. The relationship between Ted and Steven was a nuanced and complex portrayal that challenged the conservative norms of 1980s television. Though the character of Ted Dinard only recurred for a short time, his impact was significant. Withers himself reflected on the role, noting that the relationship was "30, 40 years ahead of its time," a testament to the show's early attempts at progressive storytelling. Ted Dinard's dramatic exit from the series—a tragic death in a confrontation with Blake Carrington (John Forsythe)—was a pivotal moment in the show's early narrative, solidifying the character's legacy.

A Career Defined by Versatility and The Netflix Resurgence

Following his pivotal role in *Dynasty*, Mark Withers became a quintessential working actor in Hollywood, appearing in a vast array of television shows throughout the 1980s and 90s. His filmography is a comprehensive list of classic TV, demonstrating his range across genres. He appeared in shows like *Magnum, P.I.*, *The Dukes of Hazzard*, *Hart to Hart*, *Remington Steele*, *Hotel*, and *Dallas*, often as the guest star who drove the plot. Later in his career, he transitioned seamlessly into the modern era of television, securing roles on prestige dramas and popular comedies. Notable guest spots in the 2000s and 2010s included appearances on *Frasier*, the vampire drama *True Blood*, the procedural crime series *Criminal Minds*, the mystery-comedy *Castle*, and *Drop Dead Diva*. His ability to adapt to new formats and storytelling styles allowed his career to flourish well into his later years.

The Final Act: Coroner Gary in Stranger Things

In one of his final and most widely viewed roles, Mark Withers made a quiet but memorable appearance in the first season of the Netflix global phenomenon, *Stranger Things*, in 2016. Withers played Coroner Gary, a minor but crucial character in the show's dark, mysterious narrative. His one-off appearance as the Hawkins coroner added a layer of small-town authenticity and gravitas to the early episodes of the series, which focused on the mysterious disappearance of Will Byers. This late-career role introduced him to a new generation of viewers, showcasing his enduring talent and timing. His appearance in *Stranger Things* acted as a quiet, final career highlight, linking his legacy from the pioneering soap operas of the 80s to the streaming blockbusters of the 2010s.

Mark Withers' Enduring Legacy and Final Days

Mark Withers passed away on November 22, 2024, at the age of 77, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. The news of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues who remembered his talent and his kind nature. His daughter, Jessie Withers, confirmed the passing, emphasizing the actor's lasting impact. The legacy he leaves behind is one of a dedicated professional who brought depth and humanity to every role, whether he was playing a groundbreaking gay character in *Dynasty* or a small-town official in *Stranger Things*. Withers' career is a masterclass in longevity and commitment to the craft. He was the kind of actor who elevated every scene he was in, providing an essential, reliable presence across the entire spectrum of American television. His life, marked by a quiet strength and a passion for performance, continues to be celebrated by those who appreciate the foundational figures of television drama.