A character actor with a distinctive voice, best known for playing the bumbling secret agent Chief on the 1960s TV show "Get Smart."
Edward Platt is widely recognized for his portrayal of "The Chief" in the 1965-1970 NBC/CBS television series Get Smart, but his eclectic mix of characters in various films and TV shows spanned a career that lasted over two decades.
Platt was born on February 14, 1916, in Staten Island, New York. During his childhood, he spent time in Kentucky and upstate New York, where he attended the Northwood School, a private school in Lake Placid, and was a member of the ski jump team.
After attending Princeton University for a year, Platt left to serve in the United States Army during World War II. Before becoming an actor, he sang for two years with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra.
An operatically trained bass-baritone with a powerful voice, Platt debuted on Broadway in the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Allegro. His friend, Jos Ferrer, who performed with Platt in the Broadway play The Shrike, helped him land his first film role in the 1955 film version.
In 1955, Platt appeared in Rebel Without a Cause, starring James Dean, Natalie Wood, and Sal Mineo. He continued to work in film and television, with notable roles in Designing Woman (1957), North by Northwest (1959), and The Rebel Set (1959).
Throughout the 1960s, Platt made numerous guest appearances on popular TV shows, including Perry Mason, 77 Sunset Strip, Trackdown, State Trooper, Men into Space, Ripcord, Gunsmoke, Bonanza, One Step Beyond, The Rifleman, Rawhide, Whispering Smith, and The Outer Limits.
In 1965, Platt landed the iconic role of "The Chief" in the spy comedy series Get Smart. His character's deadpan humor and exasperated reactions to Agent 86's antics made him a fan favorite.
After Get Smart, Platt continued to work in television, making appearances on shows like The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Partridge Family. He also appeared in several films, including The Chase (1966) and The Yellow Rolls-Royce (1964).
Edward Platt's portrayal of "The Chief" remains one of the most iconic television characters of the 1960s, and his extensive film and television credits showcase his versatility as an actor. With a career spanning over two decades, Platt left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Born in 1923
Star of the classic TV sitcom "Get Smart," playing the bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart, and directing numerous episodes of the show. He's iconic for his comedic timing and catchphrases like "Missed it by that much!"
93 Years Old
This actress is best known for her iconic role as Agent 99 in the 1960s TV series "Get Smart," earning her a lasting place in American pop culture. Her signature blend of wit, charm, and style has made her a beloved figure in comedy history.
Born in 1923
A comedic actor and voice artist, best known for his iconic role as Corporal Agarn in the 1960s TV series "F Troop" and numerous voice roles in cartoons and films.
92 Years Old
This actor and comedian is best known for playing Dr. Adam "Doc" Bricker on the popular 1960s-70s TV show "The Love Boat" and for his numerous guest appearances on other TV shows.
Born in 1925
Star of classic TV sitcoms, particularly "The Dick Van Dyke Show," known for his charming wit, physical comedy, and iconic characters.
89 Years Old
Trailblazing actress and producer who revolutionized television with her iconic sitcom, paving the way for future generations of women in comedy.
97 Years Old
Star of the popular 1960s sitcom "Hogan's Heroes," he played the charismatic Colonel Robert Hogan, leading a team of Allied prisoners in a German POW camp.
90 Years Old
Star of the iconic TV show M*A*S*H, playing the lovable and witty Hawkeye Pierce, and a prolific director and writer in film and television.
