Last star of ‘Hogan’s Heroes’ dies

Kenneth Washington, known for ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Hogan’s Heroes’, has died at 88. His cause of death is now known.

Veteran television actor Kenneth Washington, best remembered for his roles in Star Trek and Hogan’s Heroes, has died at the age of 88. His death was confirmed on July 18, though only now have details of his passing been made public.

According to reports, Washington died from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. He had been living with the condition in recent years, and his health had steadily declined. News of his death had initially been announced without a stated cause, prompting speculation from fans and followers of the classic shows he helped shape.

Washington made history as the only Black actor in the main cast of Hogan’s Heroes, joining in its final season as Sergeant Richard Baker. He replaced Ivan Dixon’s character Sergeant Kinchloe and remained part of the show until its end in 1971. Though the role came late in the series’ run, it became a defining part of Washington’s career.

Beyond Hogan’s Heroes, he built a rich TV résumé that spanned decades. From iconic shows like I Dream of Jeannie and My Three Sons to appearances on Dragnet 1967, Marcus Welby, M.D., and The Name of the Game, his range and presence stood out. Fans of Star Trek also remember him for his role in the franchise, further cementing his place in television history.

He married journalist Alice Marshall in 2001, and she survives him, along with his three children, three grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Washington's passing marks the end of an era, he was the final surviving principal cast member of Hogan’s Heroes. For many, his legacy lives on through the trail he blazed and the timeless shows that continue to resonate across generations.