Veteran actor William Smithers, best known for his role as oilman Jeremy Wendell on the prime-time soap opera “Dallas” died at the age of 98.
The Santa Barbara Independent announced the news of his passing June 15, but did not disclose his cause of death.
Smithers enlisted in the Navy as a Seaman 1st Class and was officially discharged in 1946 when World War II ended.
He began his acting career with a Broadway debut in 1951 in the Dwight Deere Wiman production of “Romeo and Juliet,” and received a Theater World Award for his performance. From there, his career took off, and in addition to a variety of Broadway roles, he amassed an impressive list of credits on the small screen, and in film.
Smithers is remembered for his portrayal of Wendell in the hit series “Dallas,” appearing from 1981 and again from 1984 to 1989. His memorable performance and his character’s ruthless demeanor made him a standout presence on the show and left a lasting impression on fans.
William Smithers Dies: ‘Dallas’, ‘Papillon’ Actor Was 98 https://t.co/QkIjBKrodo
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) June 16, 2026
His earlier roles included a portrayal of Peyton Mill owner David Schuster from 1965-66 on TV’s first primetime soap, ABC’s” Peyton Place,” and an appearance on the original “Star Trek” episode “Bread and Circuses,” which premiered in March 1968.
Smithers’ big-screen roles included “Attack,” “Trouble Man,” “Scorpio,” and “Papillon.”
He appeared on television in “The Defenders, Combat!”, “It Takes a Thief,” “Mission: Impossible,” “The Mod Squad,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” and “Ironside,” to name a few.
William Smithers, Character Actor from ‘Dallas’ and More, Dies at 98 https://t.co/hbaYpMS9qy
— People (@people) June 16, 2026
Off-screen, Smithers found himself at the center of a dispute with MGM that ultimately helped reshape business practices within the entertainment industry. While starring on the CBS drama “Executive Suite,” he claimed the studio violated his contract and he pursued legal action against MGM.
Smithers claimed his contract stated that aside from three clearly named exceptions, no other member of the cast would be paid a higher wage than his. He took his battle to court and the jury and the California Supreme Court ruled in his favor. (RELATED: Actress Who Was Model For Disney’s Animated Tinker Bell, Margaret Kerry, Dead At 97)
Now considered a landmark lawsuit, Smithers vs. MGM is taught as part of the curriculum in entertainment law courses, according to The Santa Barbara Independent.