Ted Bessell, born Howard Weston Bessell Jr., on March 20, 1935, in Flushing, New York, left a lasting mark on the entertainment industry with his charm, talent, and impeccable comedic timing. Bessell was most famous for his role as Donald Hollinger, the patient and devoted boyfriend of Marlo Thomas Ann Marie in the hit 1960s sitcom That Girl.
Early Life and Passion for Performance
Raised in Queens, Bessell showed early talent for the arts. Drawn first to classical music, he studied piano and performed at Carnegie Hall as a child prodigy. Later in life, his interest shifted to acting. After attending Georgetown University, Bessell pursued his passion at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York City, a renowned training ground for actors. He honed his craft there under the mentorship of Sanford Meisner, one of the 20th century’s most influential acting coaches.
Hollywood Breakthrough
As a young actor in Hollywood, he appeared in several television series, including The Andy Griffith Show and Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. His boy-next-door looks and natural charisma made him a perfect fit for lighthearted comedies, and he quickly became a familiar face on television screens.
His breakthrough role was as Donald Hollinger on “That Girl” in 1966. The series was groundbreaking, showcasing the life of an independent young woman pursuing her dreams in New York City. Fans enjoyed Bessell’s portrayal of Donald, Ann Marie’s supportive but sometimes confused boyfriend. The show was a cultural touchstone owing to their on-screen chemistry.
Beyond Acting
While That Girl remains his most iconic role, Bessell also made contributions to entertainment beyond acting. In the 1970s, he moved to directing and producing. He directed episodes for sitcoms such as The Tracey Ullman Show and Sibs alongside comedic greats like Garry Marshall and Penny Marshall.
His work behind the camera was innovative and quality-oriented. Bessell had an innate understanding of what made characters relatable and stories engaging, skills he seamlessly carried from acting to directing.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ted Bessell had an off-screen life as varied as his career. Colleagues and fans alike loved his humor and kindness. Bessell was married to Linnell Nobori, and he was a devoted husband and father. He lived life with an infectious optimism that everyone knew about him.
On October 6, 1996, Bessell died of an aortic aneurysm, at the age of 61. His sudden death broke the entertainment world but his legacy lives on, and his work continues to entertain and inspire audiences today.
Remembering Ted Bessell
Ted Bessell’s life and career remind us of the power of storytelling, whether through acting, directing, or producing. His ability to balance humor and heart in his roles made him a standout talent of his time. Fans of That Girl and beyond will find Bessell’s work a timeless celebration of love, laughter, and the human spirit.