Written by: David Williams

David White: The Quintessential Character Actor

David White was an American actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, particularly for his iconic portrayal of Larry Tate, the lovable but often exasperated boss of Darrin Stephens, in the beloved ABC sitcom Bewitched from 1964 to 1972.

A Life of Performance

Born on April 4, 1916, in Denver, Colorado, White's passion for acting was ignited at an early age. He graduated from Los Angeles City College and began honing his craft at the Pasadena Playhouse and the Cleveland Play House. His early years were marked by a stint in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, followed by a Broadway debut in 1949 in Leaf and Bough.

A Versatile Career

White's remarkable career spanned over three decades, with numerous appearances on popular television shows of the 1950s and 1960s. Some of his notable roles include:

• Two guest appearances on the CBS courtroom drama Perry Mason
• A police officer in One Step Beyond
• Versions of himself in Peter Gunn, Mr. Lucky, The Untouchables, The Fugitive, Mission Impossible, and more
• Two episodes of The Twilight Zone, including "I Sing the Body Electric" and "A World of Difference"
• A detective in Alfred Hitchcock Presents, in the episode "An Out for Oscar"

In addition to his extensive television work, White also made memorable appearances in feature films, such as:

• A sleazy columnist in Sweet Smell of Success (1957)
• A philandering executive in The Apartment (1960)
• Sunrise at Campobello (1960) and The Lawbreakers (1961)

Larry Tate: The Role of a Lifetime

In 1964, White landed the role that would catapult him to household fame – the endearingly befuddled Larry Tate in Bewitched. As the president of the McMann & Tate advertising agency, White's character was the perfect foil to Dick York's and later Dick Sargent's Darrin Stephens. For eight seasons, White's masterful portrayal of the often-frustrated but lovable boss earned him a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Legacy

David White's remarkable career was a testament to his versatility, dedication, and talent. With over 150 credits to his name, he left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Though he may be best remembered as Larry Tate, his contributions to television and film will continue to delight audiences for generations to come.