William Smithers, the veteran actor who played ruthless oilman Jeremy Wendell on the hit prime-time soap opera “Dallas,” died at the age of 98.
The Santa Barbara Independent announced his death June 15. No cause of death was disclosed.
Smithers’ memorable portrayal of Wendell from 1981 and again from 1984 to 1989 made him a standout presence on “Dallas.” His character’s ruthless demeanor left a lasting impression on fans of the series.
William Smithers Dies: ‘Dallas’, ‘Papillon’ Actor Was 98 https://t.co/QkIjBKrodo
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) June 16, 2026
Before “Dallas,” Smithers appeared as Peyton Mill owner David Schuster from 1965-66 on ABC’s “Peyton Place,” TV’s first primetime soap. He also appeared in the original “Star Trek” episode “Bread and Circuses” in March 1968.
His film credits included “Attack,” “Trouble Man,” “Scorpio,” and “Papillon.” On television, he appeared in “The Defenders,” “Combat!,” “It Takes a Thief,” “Mission: Impossible,” “The Mod Squad,” “Walker, Texas Ranger,” and “Ironside.”
Smithers enlisted in the Navy as a Seaman 1st Class during World War II and was discharged in 1946. He made his Broadway debut in 1951 in the Dwight Deere Wiman production of “Romeo and Juliet” and received a Theater World Award for his performance.
Off-screen, Smithers fought a legal battle against MGM that reshaped entertainment industry business practices.
While starring on the CBS drama “Executive Suite,” Smithers claimed the studio violated his contract. He said his contract stated that aside from three clearly named exceptions, no other cast member would be paid a higher wage than his.
A jury and the California Supreme Court ruled in his favor.
The lawsuit, Smithers vs. MGM, is now considered a landmark case taught in entertainment law courses.
Smithers’ contract dispute victory established important precedent for actors’ rights in Hollywood that continues to influence industry practices today.
William Smithers, Character Actor from ‘Dallas’ and More, Dies at 98 https://t.co/hbaYpMS9qy
— People (@people) June 16, 2026
