Charles C. Stevenson Jr., a veteran character actor best known for his recurring role on Will & Grace, has passed away at the age of 95. His son confirmed that Stevenson died of natural causes on January 19 in Camarillo, California. The news has prompted tributes from those who admired his long and steady career in television and film.

Stevenson became a familiar presence to fans of Will & Grace through his role as Smitty, the bartender who appeared throughout multiple seasons. He featured in 12 episodes across seven seasons between 2002 and 2020, becoming a recognizable face behind the bar. His final appearance was in the season 11 episode “Accidentally on Porpoise,” which aired in February 2020, when he was 89 at the time of filming. The sitcom itself was celebrated for its writing, performances, and cultural impact, earning dozens of major award nominations over its run.

Beyond Will & Grace, Stevenson built an extensive résumé spanning decades. He made his on-screen debut in the early 1980s and went on to appear in numerous television series and films. His movie credits included roles in The Naked Gun, Ed Wood, Men in Black, Pleasantville, and Ghost World. On television, he appeared in well-known series such as Cheers, L.A. Law, Dynasty, Murder, She Wrote, Everybody Loves Raymond, The Office, Weeds, My Name Is Earl, Las Vegas, and Curb Your Enthusiasm, among many others.

In an interview, Stevenson’s son Scott reflected on his father’s career and sense of humor, noting that Stevenson often joked about frequently playing ministers or officials in ceremonial scenes. Born in Piedmont, California, Stevenson served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before studying English at the University of California, Berkeley, and later pursuing acting. He is survived by five children, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the many roles that made him a familiar and respected presence on screen for generations of viewers.