Robert Machray, a seasoned character actor known for his decades-long career, passed away on January 12, at the age of 79 in his North Hollywood home. His husband, Luigi Camperchioli, shared the news on Facebook, revealing that Machray had been battling dementia.
“Today, I reflect on the beautiful moments shared with Bob, who has passed away peacefully at his home in North Hollywood after a brief battle with dementia. His love and smile will remain with me forever. Farewell, sweetheart.” Luigi.
“To weep is to make less the depth of grief.”
Machray’s impressive body of work included roles in popular TV shows such as Three’s Company, Roseanne, Suddenly Susan, The Drew Carey Show, and a memorable four-episode stint as Fire Marshal Dobbins on Cheers.
The actor was born in San Diego in 1944. Machray studied acting at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and later earned a master’s degree from the Yale School of Drama. His passion for the performing arts set the foundation for a career defined by versatility and dedication.
Machray made his television debut in the 1977 NBC TV movie Panic in Echo Park, starring Dorian Harewood. Per Deadline, that same year, he appeared on the sitcom Operation Petticoat, marking the beginning of a steady presence on television. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, he became a familiar face with roles in numerous popular series. His later credits included guest appearances on Girlfriends, Criminal Minds, and Kitchen Confidential. His final television role was in a 2011 episode of Parks and Recreation.
He also had roles on Three’s Company, Roseanne, Suddenly Susan, and The Drew Carey Show, among others. Fans of the classic sitcom Cheers will remember him for his recurring role as Fire Marshal Dobbins, a part that highlighted his ability to bring warmth and humor to every scene.
In addition to his work on screen, Machray was a respected stage actor, with a notable appearance in the 1999 Broadway production of Amadeus. He played Salieri’s Cook alongside Michael Sheen and David Suchet. According to Deadline, his extensive theater credits also included performances in Waiting for Godot at Los Angeles’ Mark Taper Forum, The Boys Next Door, Austin Pendleton’s Orson’s Shadow, and Threepenny Opera.
Rest In Peace.
