William Smithers, Actor in ‘Dallas’ and ‘Papillon,’ Dies at 98
William Smithers, best known for his role as Jeremy Wendell in *Dallas* and his legal victory against MGM, has died at 98. He passed away at home in Santa Barbara, California, on May 26, 2026. His career spanned over 400 projects, including Broadway and film. Sources confirm his age and death location but differ on his character name in *Dallas* and early career details.
What changed
New sources confirm his role as Jeremy Wendell in *Dallas* and provide additional biographical details, including Broadway credits and awards.
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William Smithers, 'Dallas' Actor, Dies at 98
confidence 95%William Smithers, best known for his role as Jeremy Wendell in *Dallas* and his legal victory against MGM, has died at 98. He passed away at home in Santa Barbara, California, on May 26, 2026. His career spanned over 400 projects, including Broadway and film. Sources confirm his age and death location but differ on his character name in *Dallas* and early career details.
What's confirmed:
- William Smithers died on May 26, 2026, at his home in Santa Barbara, California, at age 98.
- He was best known for his recurring role as Jeremy Wendell in the TV series *Dallas* from 1981 and 1984 to 1989.
- Smithers also appeared as David Schuster in *Peyton Place* from 1965 to 1966.
- He made his Broadway debut in 1951 as Tybalt in *Romeo and Juliet*, earning a Theater World Award for the performance.
- Smithers was born on July 10, 1927, in Richmond, Virginia.
- He received an Obie Award in 1957 for his portrayal of Treplev in *The Seagull*.
Still unconfirmed:
- Smithers successfully sued MGM in a landmark legal case still referenced today.
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William Smithers, 'Dallas' and 'Papillon' Actor, Dies at 98
confidence 98%William Smithers, a veteran actor known for his roles in *Dallas* and *Papillon*, has died at age 98. He passed away at his home in Santa Barbara, California, on May 26, 2026. His career spanned over 400 projects, including notable appearances in film and television. Smithers also successfully sued MGM in a landmark legal case still referenced today.
What's confirmed:
- William Smithers died on May 26, 2026, at his home in Santa Barbara, California, at the age of 98.
- He was best known for his roles in *Dallas* and the 1973 film *Papillon*, where he played a warden in a memorable scene.
- Smithers successfully sued MGM in a legal case that remains a teaching example in entertainment law.
- His career included over 400 projects, spanning film and television, including appearances in *Peyton Place*, *Attack* (1956), and *Executive Suite*.
Still unconfirmed:
- His death was first reported by the *Santa Barbara Independent* before wider media outlets confirmed it.