The man being mourned is John Cypher, an actor remembered for dozens of roles across theater, film, and television. He died on August 3 at his home in Central Point, Oregon, with his wife, writer Carol Rosin, by his side.
Cypher was born on January 13, 1932, in New York City. His major breakthrough came in 1957, when he played Prince Charming opposite Julie Andrews in CBS’s first live television production of Cinderella. The broadcast was watched by around 107 million viewers.
Over the course of his career, he appeared in 12 Broadway productions, including The Night of the Iguana, Man of La Mancha, and The Great White Hope. On television, he appeared in such series as Bonanza, Dynasty, Murder, She Wrote, JAG, Walker, Texas Ranger, and Law & Order.
One of his best-known roles was Police Chief Fletcher Daniels in Hill Street Blues. His film credits included Masters of the Universe and Valdez Is Coming, while he also voiced Spellbinder in the animated series Batman Beyond.
But acting was not his only talent. According to his obituary, Cypher loved singing opera in four languages and would sometimes unexpectedly break into song, bringing smiles to those around him. In 2019, he also published a book featuring 99 limericks and reflections on life.
His final wish was equally distinctive. John Cypher was to be buried on August 11 at the Forest Conservation Burial Ground in Ashland, Oregon. In accordance with his wishes, he was to be laid to rest beneath tall trees in a meadow, wrapped in a biodegradable shroud.
And so ended the journey of an artist who remained part of the American stage and screen for more than five decades. The world is saying farewell to John Cypher — an actor and singer who leaves behind countless performances and cherished memories among his fans. Rest in peace.