Departures of note

Jon Cypher was born on January 13, 1932, in New York City. He began his career on stage, making his Broadway debut in 1959 and later appearing in productions such as The Night of the Iguana, Man of La Mancha, and 1776. In 1957 he originated the role of the Prince in Rodgers and Hammerstein's televised Cinderella opposite Julie Andrews.

Cypher became a familiar face on American television, most notably as Chief of Police Fletcher Daniels on the acclaimed series Hill Street Blues, a role he played throughout the show's run from 1981 to 1987. He also portrayed Brigadier General Marcus Craig on the sitcom Major Dad and had recurring parts on As the World Turns, Santa Barbara, and Probe. His film work included the villain Frank Tanner in Valdez Is Coming (1971) and the heroic Man‑At‑Arms in the 1987 movie Masters of the Universe.

Beyond screen work, Cypher remained active in theater, performing in both musical and dramatic productions across Broadway and regional stages. He continued acting into the late 1990s, appearing in a variety of character roles. He died at his home in Central Point, Oregon, on August 3, 2026, at the age of 94.