The world of comedy has lost one of its beloved supporting players with the passing of Ed Williams at the age of 98. Best known to millions as Ted Olson, the eccentric lab scientist in the classic comedy “The Naked Gun” and its precursor, the TV series “Police Squad!”, Williams brought a unique blend of dry wit and earnest delivery to his most famous role. His death marks the passing of another link to a golden era of slapstick cinema, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and a remarkably varied life.
Williams was far from an overnight success. His journey to Hollywood was paved with a rich tapestry of experiences long before he ever faced a camera. Born in 1926, he served his country in the Navy, worked as a radio salesman, and became a television booth announcer. His passion for performance and communication eventually led him to a career as a broadcasting teacher at L.A. City College, where he mentored future generations while honing his own craft in live theater.
His big break came with the role of Ted Olson, a character who delivered absurd scientific explanations with unwavering seriousness. Who could forget him telling Leslie Nielsen’s Frank Drebin about the Earth’s crust, stating, “That’s what we scientists call ‘Rock’”? Williams was not just an actor in these scenes; he was also the creative force behind many of the show’s most bizarre inventions, from the Swiss-army shoe to dart-shooting cufflinks, showcasing a true inventor’s mind for comedy.
While “The Naked Gun” cemented his place in pop culture, his career was much broader. He enjoyed a long run in television, appearing in popular shows like “MacGyver,” “Matlock,” and “L.A. Law.” On the big screen, he was a memorable Reverend in Steve Martin’s “Father of the Bride,” a role that fit perfectly with his frequent casting as kindly clergy members. He even ventured into horror with the cult film “Carnosaur.”
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Ed Williams retired from on-screen work in 2010 but remained active with radio performances into his nineties. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. As fans remember his deadpan humor and warm presence, his passing is a poignant reminder of the talented ensemble that made “The Naked Gun” an enduring classic, joining the ranks of departed co-stars like Leslie Nielsen and George Kennedy.
