Veteran character actor Charles C. Stevenson Jr. has passed away at the age of 95, closing the chapter on a long and quietly influential career in entertainment. His family confirmed that he died of natural causes on January 19 in Camarillo, California. News of his passing prompted reflection from fans and colleagues who recognized him not as a headline star, but as a dependable presence who brought authenticity to every role he played.
Many viewers remember Stevenson best from Will & Grace, where he portrayed Smitty, the bartender who appeared intermittently throughout the show’s run. Across 12 episodes spanning seven seasons between 2002 and 2020, he became a familiar figure behind the bar. His final appearance came during the show’s revival, in the episode “Accidentally on Porpoise,” which aired in 2020. By then, the series had already secured its place in television history for its writing, performances, and cultural influence.
Stevenson’s work, however, extended far beyond a single sitcom. Beginning his screen career in the early 1980s, he built a résumé that reflected decades of steady work in both film and television. His film appearances included memorable roles in The Naked Gun, Ed Wood, Men in Black, Pleasantville, and Ghost World. On television, he appeared in a wide range of well-known series, from Cheers and L.A. Law to Everybody Loves Raymond, The Office, Weeds, My Name Is Earl, Las Vegas, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Off screen, Stevenson was known for his humor and perspective. His son, Scott, once shared that his father often joked about being cast as ministers or officials in formal scenes, embracing the reliability of such roles with good spirits. Born in Piedmont, California, Stevenson served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before studying English at the University of California, Berkeley, and later turning to acting. He is survived by five children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Through countless roles—large and small—he leaves behind a legacy defined by consistency, professionalism, and a presence audiences came to trust without always knowing his name.