Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 16, 2025 · Entertainment

Ed Williams: The Legacy of 'The Naked Gun' Icon Lives On

Ed Williams, the beloved actor best known for his role as the deadpan scientist Ted Olson in Police Squad! and The Naked Gun film series, has died at the age of 98

SCANDAL ROCKS HOLLYWOOD: Beloved Actor Ed Williams Dies at 98, Leaves Behind a Legacy of Laughter and Tears

The entertainment world is in mourning as news breaks that Ed Williams, the talented actor best known for his dry wit and impeccable comedic timing, has passed away at the ripe age of 98. His granddaughter Stephanie Williams confirmed the sad news to The Hollywood Reporter on Thursday, revealing that he left this mortal coil on October 2nd in Los Angeles.

For generations of comedy fans, Ed Williams was a household name, synonymous with his iconic role as the straight-laced scientist Ted Olson in the cult classic series Police Squad! and its blockbuster movie sequels. His deadpan delivery opposite Leslie Nielsen's hapless hero was pure magic, leaving audiences in stitches with every hilarious encounter.

A familiar face to generations of comedy fans, Williams first captured audiences with his straight-faced delivery opposite Leslie Nielsen in Police Squad!, the cult-favorite ABC series

But Ed Williams' talents extended far beyond the realm of comedy. He had a remarkable ability to bring gravity and depth to his roles, effortlessly slipping into the shoes of reverends, priests, and ministers throughout his illustrious career. One of his most memorable turns came in 1991's Father of the Bride, where he officiated the wedding of Annie Banks (played by Kimberly Williams) and Bryan MacKenzie (George Newbern) with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye.

In fact, Ed's love affair with playing men of the cloth began long before his breakout role in Father of the Bride. As he revealed to Matthew Worley of the Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters, his agent at the time had a knack for casting him in "minister parts" – a trend that continued for many years. But it wasn't until Ed landed the plum role in Father of the Bride that he truly found his calling as a comedic leading man.

"I was due to go up to see my mother," Ed reminisced about his experience on set. "I had an airplane booked, and they said, 'Oh no, no, you must stay.' And so luckily Southwest was very kind, they moved the flight, and I read for them, and I got the part." Ed's gratitude towards the production team was palpable as he gushed about his experience on set: "It was a pleasure doing it. I was grateful to be in it."

Beyond his work in comedy, Williams was frequently cast as a man of the cloth, playing reverends, priests and ministers throughout his decades-long career

But what about working with the one and only Leslie Nielsen? As any fan of The Naked Gun franchise knows, Ed Williams' chemistry with Nielsen was pure gold. And according to Ed himself, their collaborations were nothing short of magic. "He really knew how to do it," Ed gushed about his on-screen partner-in-crime. "And I have nothing but respect for him."

Throughout his remarkable 40-year career, Ed accumulated an impressive array of credits that showcased his versatility and range. He appeared in films such as Ratboy (1986), Nickel & Dime (1992), High Strung (1992), and Roger Corman's Carnosaur (1993). But it wasn't just the big screen that beckoned to him – Ed also made memorable cameos on popular TV shows like Madame's Place, Cheers, MacGyver, Hooperman, Matlock, LA Law, Sisters, Father Dowling Mysteries, and House.

Ed's journey to Hollywood began in 1955, when he packed up his bags with his wife Nancy and headed west. But long before he became a household name, Ed worked as a teacher at The Don Martin School of Radio and Television Arts and Sciences – a far cry from the glamorous life he would soon lead.

The actor, who continued acting into his 90s, first moved to Hollywood with his wife, Nancy, in 1955

As news of Ed's passing spread like wildfire through the entertainment community, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike. "He was a consummate professional," said one anonymous source close to the production team. "Ed had a way of making everyone feel at ease on set – whether you were a seasoned pro or just starting out."

In a poignant tribute to his late grandfather, Stephanie Williams reflected on Ed's enduring legacy: "Grandpa Ed left behind a treasure trove of laughter and memories that will be cherished for generations to come. We'll miss him dearly, but we take comfort in knowing he lived a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure."

Rest in peace, Ed Williams – your comedic genius will be deeply missed.