Veteran actor James B. Sikking died on July 13 at the age of 90. His publicist Cynthia Snyder told Deadline that when the actor passed away from dementia, he was at home surrounded by his family. “In a remarkable career, Sikking’s wonderfully exciting face gave us drama, comedy, tragedy, and hilarious farce. His career spanned over six decades in television, film, and on stage,” said Snyder in a statement. “His talent, integrity, and imagination intrigued and delighted audiences.”
Although best known for playing Lt. Howard Hunter on the NBC drama Hill Street Blues and playing Doogie’s father, Dr. David Howser, on Doogie Howser, M.D., Sikking’s career began back in the ‘60s with appearances in series like Perry Mason, Rawhide, and The Outer Limits. He also starred on General Hospital as Dr. James “Jim” Hobart from 1973-76.
Jim was a doctor at General Hospital struggling with alcoholism who began seeing Nurse Audrey March. After his hands were injured in a car accident, Jim worried he’d never operate again, Audrey married him even though she was still in love with ex-husband Dr. Steve Hardy. Unable to work as a doctor, Jim’s drinking grew worse and Audrey’s attempts to help him only made things worse. After years in a loveless marriage, Jim eventually got sober and became a college professor, divorcing Audrey to leave town with one of his students, Sally Grimes.
During his decades in show business, Sikking appeared in episodes of television series like Eight Is Enough, Starsky and Hutch, Charlie’s Angels, L.A. Law, Brooklyn South, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. On the big screen, the actor could be seen in films like Ordinary People, Star Trek III: The Search for Spock, The Pelican Brief, and Fever Pitch.
Sikking is survived by his wife, Florine, son Andrew, Daughter Dr. Emily Sikking, and four grandchildren. Our thoughts are with Sikking’s family and friends during this difficult time.
