Days, ‘Star Trek’ Alum William Morgan Sheppard Dead at 86
Past soap actor’s career spanned decades.
Soaps.com has learned that former Days of our Lives actor, William Morgan Sheppard, died on Sunday January 6 in Los Angeles at the age of 86. His son, Mark Sheppard, shared the news on his Instagram account with a heartfelt post: “We went to spend some time with my father today. Though he couldn’t speak, we held hands, he laughed and was so happy to see us. We left and came home. A good day. He was rushed to hospital and passed at 6:30pm, my mother by his side. I am so grateful that he didn’t have to suffer any longer. Thank you for all your kind thoughts, love and prayers.”
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The actor was born and raised in London, England, where he graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, served in the Merchant Navy, and became an Associate Artist at the Royal Shakespeare Company. He is survived by his wife, son, and three grandchildren.
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Sheppard, who played Charles on DOOL from 2000 – 2001, had an acting career spanning over five decades. Though he considered his part in 1985’s Max Headroom as his breakthrough role, he became best known for his appearances in the Star Trek films, in which he played various parts, and other science fiction offerings such as Seaquest 2032 and Babylon 5. Gilmore Girls fans might remember him as the town elder. Sheppard’s trademark was his deep, raspy voice, which he lent to characters in cartoons such as Biker Mice from Mars and Gargoyles, as well as in video games. Notably, he and his son, also an actor, played the older and younger version of the same character in both Doctor Who and NCIS.
Soaps.com extends condolences to William Morgan Sheppard’s family and friends.
