Charles C. Stevenson Jr., a respected character actor whose steady presence graced television and film for decades, has died at the age of 95. His son confirmed that Stevenson passed away of natural causes on January 19 in Camarillo, California. News of his death has prompted warm remembrances from fans who recognized him as one of those performers who quietly shaped the texture of countless productions.
Many viewers remember Stevenson best for his recurring role as Smitty, the bartender on Will & Grace. Appearing in 12 episodes across seven seasons between 2002 and 2020, he became a familiar and comforting fixture behind the bar. His final on-screen appearance came in the season 11 episode “Accidentally on Porpoise,” which aired in February 2020, filmed when he was 89. The long-running sitcom itself remains one of television’s most celebrated comedies, widely praised for its performances and cultural influence.
Stevenson’s career extended far beyond a single role. After making his screen debut in the early 1980s, he went on to build an expansive résumé that reflected both range and reliability. His film credits included The Naked Gun, Ed Wood, Men in Black, Pleasantville, and Ghost World. On television, audiences spotted him in series such as Cheers, L.A. Law, Dynasty, Murder, She Wrote, Everybody Loves Raymond, The Office, Weeds, My Name Is Earl, Las Vegas, and Curb Your Enthusiasm, among many others. Often cast in authority or ceremonial roles, he embraced the work with humor and professionalism.
Born in Piedmont, California, Charles C. Stevenson Jr. served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before studying English at the University of California, Berkeley, and later turning to acting. His son Scott has shared that Stevenson liked to joke about frequently playing ministers or officials, a nod to the dependable presence he brought to so many productions. He is survived by five children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Though rarely in the spotlight, Stevenson leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of television and film’s quietly indispensable performers—someone audiences may not always name, but instantly recognized and trusted when he appeared on screen.