David Ketchum, the comedian, actor, and writer best known for his role as Agent 13 in the classic spy-comedy series Get Smart, has died at the age of 97. He passed away on August 10, his family confirmed.
Born in Quincy, Illinois, Ketchum built a versatile career in television and film, becoming a recognizable face in 1960s sitcoms. One of his earliest notable roles was as Spiffy, a camp counselor in Camp Runamuck, followed by a regular role as Mel Warshaw in I’m Dickens, He’s Fenster. He made guest appearances on various popular shows including The Mary Tyler Moore Show and TV specials such as A Knight in Shining Armour.
Ketchum gained widespread recognition for his comedic role as Agent 13 on Get Smart, a character known for humorously hiding in unconventional places like vending machines and mailboxes. He reprised the role in the 1989 film Get Smart Again and a 1995 episode of the short-lived Fox revival.
Beyond television, Ketchum expanded into film in the 1970s, with credits in Bless the Beasts & Children, Love at First Bite, The Main Event with Barbra Streisand, and The North Avenue Irregulars. He continued acting into the 1980s and 1990s, appearing in films like Young Doctors in Love and The Other Sister. He also lent his voice to the animated feature Nanny and the Professor and the Phantom of the Circus, voicing the character Arturo.
In addition to acting, Ketchum had a successful career as a screenwriter, contributing scripts to popular shows including The Andy Griffith Show, Petticoat Junction, MASH, and The Six Million Dollar Man. He also released a comedy album titled Long-Playing Tongue of Dave Ketchum.
Ketchum is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, two daughters, three grandchildren, and a great-grandson.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ