Charles Kimbrough, Murphy Brown Star and Original Company Cast Member, Dies at 86
(© Joseph Marzullo)
Stage and screen actor Charles Kimbrough, best known for his television role as Jim Dial on the comedy series Murphy Brown, died on January 11 in Culver City, California. He was 86.
Kimbrough had an extensive theatrical career, with over a dozen Broadway credits to his name. He earned a Tony nomination in 1971 for his performance as Harry in the original Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim and George Furth's musical Company. He went on to perform in Broadway productions of Candide, Sunday in the Park With George (original Broadway production), The Merchant of Venice, and Harvey (2012 revival starring Jim Parsons), among others. He additionally starred in the original off-Broadway production of A.R. Gurney's comedy Sylvia in 1995, performing opposite Blythe Danner and Sarah Jessica Parker.
In 1988, Kimbrough landed the role of news anchor Jim Dial on the CBS sitcom Murphy Brown, led by Candice Bergen. The series ran for 11 seasons and earned Kimbrough an Emmy nomination in 1990 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
Kimbrough was married to Mary Jane Wilson from 1961-91. In 2002, he married his Company castmate Beth Howland, who died of lung cancer in December 2015 at the age of 76. Kimbrough is survived by his son, John Kimbrough, as well as his sister, Linda Kimbrough, and his stepdaughter, Holly Howland.
