Paxton Whitehead, a prolific actor of screen and stage known for his work on “Friends” and his Tony-nominated turn in “Camelot,” died Friday at 85, his representative confirmed.
“Paxton was loved and respected by his family and everyone who knew him,” Whitehead’s rep Robert Attermann confirmed to USA TODAY in an emailed statement.
Whitehead had a lengthy acting career, including a slew of movie and television titles. In sitcom “Friends,” he played Mr. Waltham, the Bloomingdale’s boss of Jennifer Aniston’s character Rachel Green; his TV guest roles included stints on “The Drew Carey Show,” “The West Wing,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Mad About You” and “Frasier.” Whitehead, who made his silver screen debut in 1986’s “Back to School,” also starred in the 2001 fantasy romance film “Kate and Leopold.”
He also had a successful career on Broadway with roles in “My Fair Lady,” “The Harlequin Studies,” “Suite in Two Keys” and others. He earned a Tony nomination for his performance as King Pellinore in 1980’s “Camelot” (he also starred in the 2005 revival).
“He was a cherished client, a luminary in the acting world who is renowned for his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft,” rep Attermann said. “He was admired for his versatility and many roles he performed on stage, TV and film. His contributions to the world of entertainment will be cherished and remembered for years to come.”
Whitehead was born on Oct. 17, 1937, in Kent, England. As he aspired to a career in acting, he studied at London’s Webber-Douglas Academy of Dramatic Arts beginning when he was 17 years old, according to IMDb. He worked with a small touring company before making his first professional foray in 1956 shortly before signing with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Whitehead was married to Scottish actress Patricia Gage from 1971 through 1986 and wed Katherine Jane Robertson in 1987.
