‘The Waltons’ star and ‘exceptional human being’ Tom Bower dies, age 86

Tom Bower, celebrated for his prolific career spanning nearly 200 acting credits, including his memorable role in The Waltons, has sadly passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy cherished by many.

Bower passed away in his sleep on Thursday, May 30 at his Los Angeles home, according to his sister-in-law Mary Miller, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

His representative Marsha McManus issued a statement regarding his passing to Entertainment Tonight, describing him as an “exceptional human being”.

“The three most important things in Tom’s life were: His wife Ursula. Acting was second. And third was his passion for other actors and contracts for fairness. He was an exceptional human being,” McManus said.

Born January 3, 1938, Bower embarked on his acting journey with a series of modest roles in the 1970s.

He soon found himself appearing more prominently in notable films such as Die Hard 2 alongside Bruce Willis and in Nixon with Anthony Hopkins.

Bower not only found success on the silver screen but also in television with his performances in iconic shows such as The Rockford Files, Monk, The X-Files, and The West Wing.

Bower’s most enduring role came in the 1970s historical drama, The Waltons, in which he portrayed the beloved Dr. Curtis Willard. Remarkably, Bower’s tenure on the show was cut short when his character met an untimely end, reportedly due to his request for a salary increase.

With nearly 200 acting credits to his name, Bower remains a stalwart figure in the entertainment industry, his versatility and dedication marking a career that spans decades.

As news of his passing spread, fans worldwide took to social media to express their heartfelt tributes and condolences.

TOM BOWER: the consummate “oh, THAT guy” – presence out the wazoo, unforgettable. Tough losing these guys if you love TV and movies because they carry the history of media on their backs. Some favorites:
1. EL CAMINO (BREAKING BAD)
2. ALWAYS SUNNY
3. HILLS HAVE EYES
4. DIE HARD 2 pic.twitter.com/JrGWDobxeA

— Sean L. Malin (@cinemalins) June 6, 2024

Aww my condolences to the family 😢😢😢😢😢.

— Nancy Laws (@nancy34436) June 6, 2024

Oh no! Honored I got to write some music for him. What a legacy. ❤️

— Bear McCreary 🐻🎶 (@bearmccreary) June 6, 2024

Tom Bower who appeared in duo roles on the show, a Narcotics Cop ‘Jungle Madness’ and De Petrus ‘Larry of Arabia’ passed away on the 4th of June aged 86. R.I.P pic.twitter.com/LtKRjg0fUt

— Hill Street Blues Fan Group (@HSBFans) June 6, 2024

Bower is survived by his two children, Viveca and Rob, and his four grandchildren