Howard Weston "Ted" Bessell Jr. remains a beloved fixture of classic television, best remembered for playing Donald Hollinger alongside Marlo Thomas in the hit 1960s sitcom That Girl. While internet misinformation often surrounds his life and final days, Bessell built a celebrated multi-decade career as an actor, director, and Emmy Award-winning producer before his passing in 1996.
Born in Flushing, Queens, New York, in 1935, Bessell initially pursued classical music studies at Georgetown University and the University of Colorado before pivoting to acting. His charm, sharp comedic timing, and approachable screen presence made him a staple of American television for over thirty years. Beyond his on-camera work, he shaped the medium behind the scenes, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond a single television role.
The Breakthrough Role: That Girl
Bessell achieved household-name status when he was cast in That Girl, which ran on ABC from 1966 to 1971. He portrayed Donald Hollinger, a level-headed magazine writer and the supportive boyfriend—and eventual fiancé—of Ann Marie, an aspiring actress played by Marlo Thomas.
The chemistry between Bessell and Thomas anchored the show's narrative framework. At a time when television networks frequently depicted women as dependent spouses, That Girl spotlighted an independent career woman in New York City. Bessell's character provided a refreshing counterweight: a modern, progressive partner who championed his fiancée's ambitions rather than stifling them.
Directing, Producing, and Later Work
When That Girl wrapped its 136-episode run, Bessell didn't step away from the television industry. Instead, he expanded his creative repertoire into directing and producing.
- Me and the Chimp: In 1972, he starred as dentist Mike Reynolds in this short-lived CBS comedy series.
- The Tracey Ullman Show: Bessell served as a producer on this influential sketch comedy series, sharing a Primetime Emmy Award in 1989.
- Sibs: He directed and produced episodes for this early-1990s sitcom starring Marsha Mason and Jami Gertz.
- Directing Aspirations: At the time of his passing, Bessell was actively preparing to direct a feature-film adaptation of the classic sitcom Bewitched.
His behind-the-scenes contributions demonstrated a sharp instinct for comedy pacing and talent management, earning him deep respect among industry peers who viewed him as a versatile collaborator rather than just a sitcom lead.
Clarifying the Facts of His Passing
Fictionalized rumors and AI-generated fabrications online frequently misrepresent the circumstances of celebrity deaths, and Bessell has not been immune to revisionist internet myths. Tabloid-style blogs often sensationalize his legacy with fictional accounts of distress or vague conspiracy theories.
The verifiable facts are straightforward: Ted Bessell passed away on October 6, 1996, at the age of 61 in Los Angeles, California. According to medical records and reports published by outlets like The New York Times, the cause of death was an aortic aneurysm. He was interred at Woodlawn Memorial Cemetery in Santa Monica, California, survived by his wife, Linnell Nobori, and his two daughters.
Lasting Cultural Impact
Bessell's career bridged the gap between early television comedy and modern ensemble production. That Girl paved the way for subsequent female-led sitcoms like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Bessell's understated comedic style helped define the template for the supportive sitcom partner.
Fans and television historians continue to revisit his work, appreciating an era of broadcasting defined by sharp writing, character-driven humor, and genuine on-screen warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ted Bessell's most famous role?
He is best known for playing Donald Hollinger, the reporter boyfriend of Marlo Thomas's character in the 1960s sitcom That Girl.
Did Ted Bessell win any awards?
Yes. Alongside his acting credits, he won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1989 as one of the producers of The Tracey Ullman Show.
When and how did Ted Bessell pass away?
He died on October 6, 1996, at the age of 61 in Los Angeles, California, due to an aortic aneurysm.
Was Ted Bessell involved in television production later in life?
He transitioned successfully into directing and producing, working on projects including the sitcom Sibs and various television movies.
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