Ken Howard

Ken Howard, whose towering presence and resonant baritone voice became hallmarks of a prolific career that spanned over five decades, remains a memorable figure in the landscape of American entertainment. Known for his versatility and dedication, Howard carved out a niche for himself, navigating between television, film, and theater with an enviable ease. Born on March 28, 1944, in El Centro, California, Kenneth Joseph Howard Jr. was raised in Manhasset, New York. His upbringing in a supportive environment laid the foundation for his future in the arts. Howard's early exposure to performance came through his education; he attended Amherst College and subsequently received a master's degree from the Yale School of Drama. This academic grounding provided Howard with both the theoretical and practical skills that would inform his acting career. Ken Howard's rise to prominence began on Broadway. He made his Broadway debut in 1968 with "Promises, Promises," a musical adaptation of Billy Wilder's film "The Apartment," for which he received the Theatre World Award. His stage acumen was further established when he starred as Thomas Jefferson in the original Broadway production of "1776" in 1969. This performance was emblematic of Howard's ability to embody complex historical figures, a skill that would later shine in his screen roles. In 1970, Ken Howard transitioned to television, earning a starring role in the CBS show "The White Shadow." His portrayal of Ken Reeves, a former professional basketball player turned high school coach, not only resonated with audiences but also reflected Howard’s real-life stature and former athletic ability. At 6 feet 6 inches tall, Howard was a natural fit for the role, and the series, which aired from 1978 to 1981, became a cultural touchstone, appreciated for its progressive handling of social issues such as race and education. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Howard’s career expanded into television movies and guest roles on popular series. He became known for his uncanny ability to adapt to varied characters, a skill that earned him guest spots on shows like "Murder, She Wrote," "The Golden Girls," and "Diagnosis: Murder." During this period, Howard also appeared in films, with small but memorable roles, notably in "Clear and Present Danger" (1994) alongside Harrison Ford. The new millennium saw Ken Howard achieving a different kind of recognition—one as an advocate for his colleagues. In 2009, he was elected president of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), a position he held during its critical merger with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) in 2012, forming SAG-AFTRA. Howard's leadership was pivotal during this transitional period, advocating for the rights and benefits of the union’s members. His tenure was marked by a dedication to improving working conditions for actors and a push for diversity and inclusion within the industry. In 2009, further cementing his legacy, Howard received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie for his role as Phelan Beale in HBO’s "Grey Gardens." His portrayal of the eccentric yet endearing patriarch demonstrated Howard's nuanced acting chops, capturing the complexity of a real-life figure with warmth and depth. Ken Howard's career was not devoid of personal challenges. In the early 2000s, he faced several health issues, including a kidney transplant in 2000—a testament to his resilience and tenacity. He often credited his survival and subsequent return to acting to his wife, Linda Fetters Howard, whose support was instrumental during that period. Beyond his professional achievements, Howard was admired for his integrity and kindness, qualities that were revered both in and out of the spotlight. These traits, coupled with his commitment to his craft and his fellow actors, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Ken Howard passed away on March 23, 2016, at 71, just days shy of his 72nd birthday. His death marked the loss of a steadfast advocate and versatile performer, whose contributions spanned not only the breadth of entertainment media but also the breadth of human compassion. Howard's legacy endures through his body of work and the union he helped to fortify, serving as a testament to a life dedicated to the arts and the people who make art possible.