Veteran actor Pat Hingle passed away Saturday evening at the age of 84, according to CNN. The news of Hingle’s passing was released yesterday by his family.
Hingle had a long career as an actor and may be best known to our readers as Commissioner Gordon in the Michael Keaton “Batman” movie.” Hingle reprised the role three more times in the late 80s and early 90s before the franchise was given a reboot with “Batman Begins.”
Hingle began his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in numerous television theater shows. His first movie role was an uncredited appearance in 1954’s “On the Waterfront,” which won eight Academy Awards; he played the by-the-book judge opposite Clint Eastwood’s vengeful marshal in 1968’s “Hang ‘Em High,” and appeared as Sally Field’s father in 1979’s “Norma Rae.”
He also guest-starred in countless TV series, including a memorable turn as a character named Col. Daniel Webster Tucker in a 1980 “M*A*S*H” episode in which he antagonizes the unit’s surgeons with unforeseen consequences.
Hingle’s other TV series included “Hawaii Five-O,” “The Streets of San Francisco,” “Hart to Hart,” “St. Elsewhere,” “Magnum, P.I.” and “Cheers.”
Hingle’s final work was in last year’s “Talladega Nights”
Hingle is survived by his wife of nearly 30 years, Julia, and their five children.
One of the finest character actors in the biz and a very nice man too. I will miss Pat.
Loved him in Maximum Overdrive!