Jon Cypher, an actor recognized for his role as Police Chief Fletcher Daniels on the acclaimed television series "Hill Street Blues" and for portraying Prince Charming in the 1957 musical "Cinderella," has died at the age of 94. His family announced his passing on Monday, stating he died at his home in Central Point, Oregon, on August 3. His wife of 40 years, scientist Carol Rosin, was with him at the time of his death. The cause of death was not disclosed.
Cypher's family noted that he will be buried in the Forest Conservation Burial Ground in Ashland, Oregon, in a natural setting, fulfilling his wish to "return to nature." His obituary described him as "the most kind of men with a great sense of humor, brilliant mind, and a huge loving and caring heart for all sacred life."
Born in New York City in 1932, Cypher graduated from Erasmus Hall High School and Brooklyn College before earning a master's degree in marriage and family counseling from the University of Vermont. His television debut occurred in 1957 as Prince Christopher in "Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella," a live broadcast production that captivated an audience of over 107 million viewers and starred Julie Andrews.
"Hill Street Blues" aired from 1981 to 1987, with Cypher's portrayal of Chief Daniels becoming a memorable aspect of the series. His career also included a role as General Marcus Craig on "Major Dad" and as Man-At-Arms in the 1987 film "Masters of the Universe." His extensive television work spanned appearances on shows such as "Dynasty," "Law & Order," "Walker, Texas Ranger," "Knots Landing," and "As the World Turns."
Beyond television and film, Cypher had a career on Broadway, with credits including "Man of La Mancha," "The Great White Hope," "1776," "Coco," and "Big." In a 2014 interview, he reflected on the challenges of acting, advising aspiring actors to "gird your loins very sturdily and have a sharp sword" due to the profession's inherent judgment and rejections.
Cypher also expressed a public interest in "urgent recognition of truth regarding non-threatening extra-terrestials and their crafts" and promoted "The Treaty to Prevent the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space." He authored a book of limericks titled "If You're Not Depressed You Oughta Be in Therapy," published in 2019. He was previously married to Ruth Wagner from 1965 to 1975 before marrying Carol Rosin in 1986.