Tom Poston (1921 - 2007)

Tom Poston passed away on 30 April 2007. If ever there was an actor who's television career could be used as an example to define the word ubiquitous, it was his.

In the late 40s he began his career acting on Broadway in several notable dramatic roles. But he made his real mark as a comic actor. His big break came when he was a regular on The Steve Allen Show. The 60s saw him star in several movies & his TV appearances were mostly as a panelist on various game shows. In 1971 he made what I consider his best performance in a movie. It was in Cold Turkey (filmed in Iowa). In it he played Mr. Stopworth, a perpetually soused playboy.

He continued to act in a variety of shows & movies. His star shined even more when he landed the role of George Utley, the handy man on Newhart. After the show ended, he make appearances on a variety of TV shows as well as appearing in movies & even returning to Broadway. In 2001 he married Suzanne Pleshette.

I know that it will be said by a lot of people but it is true, he was 1 of a kind. He was so natural in his roles that he never seemed to be acting. I am sure that often made is talent underappreciated by those watching him perform. I know I often failed to tryuly appreciate his great talent. He will be greatly missed.

Here are some clips that capture the talented actor that he was:

Steve Allen Show-The Unidenified Flying Objects

To Tell the Truth episode #1084, 4 Aug 1966

Newhart - "A Midseason's Night Dream" 14 March 1988 (Season 6, Episode 21)