
Charles Napier
Biography
Charles Lewis Napier (April 12, 1936 – October 5, 2011) was a prolific American actor known for his many supporting and occasional leading roles in television and film. Born near Scottsville, Kentucky, Napier served in the U.S. Army before pursuing higher education, earning a degree in art from Western Kentucky University. He initially worked as a sports coach and art teacher before dedicating himself to acting. Napier gained early attention after starring in several low-budget films by director Russ Meyer, including his debut in Cherry, Harry & Raquel! (1969). He became well-known for his portrayal of tough, authoritative characters such as police officers, soldiers, and villains often with a rugged or corrupt edge. Among his memorable roles are the short-tempered country singer Tucker McElroy in The Blues Brothers (1980), CIA officer Marshall Murdock in Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), and multiple collaborations with director Jonathan Demme in films like The Silence of the Lambs (1991) and Philadelphia (1993). He also had notable appearances in television, including roles in The A-Team, The Oregon Trail, Star Trek: The Original Series, and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Napier was appreciated for his strong voice, steely gaze, and distinct broad chin, which made him a standout character actor. Napier passed away in 2011 in Bakersfield, California, due to thrombosis at the age of 75. He also published a book about his life titled Square Jaw and Big Heart
TV Shows(30)

Archer
Dr. Speltz (voice)

Squidbillies

Squidbillies
Sheriff (voice)

The 4400
Josiah

The Batman
Kilgore Steed (voice)

Justice League Unlimited
General Hardcastle (voice)

Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide
Seargent Guard

Cold Case
Hal Chaney (2008)

Monk
Sheriff Bates

The Legend of Tarzan
Ian McTeague (voice)

Son of the Beach

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
Warren Matthews

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command
Wild Bill Cooley (voice)

God, the Devil and Bob
Rev. Nat Potterson (voice)

Roswell
Hal Carver

The Magician

Hercules
(voice)

Men in Black: The Series
Chief Zed (voice)

The Practice
Judge Abraham Betts

George & Leo