'Benson' & Broadway Star James Noble Dies at Age 94

The New York Times reports that James Noble, perhaps best known for his role as Governor Eugene Gatling on the ABC comedy BENSON, has passed away at the age of 94. The actor died yesterday, March 28th at Norwalk Hospital in Connecticut after suffering a stroke.

Noble last appeared on Broadway in the late 70's, starring as Toby Felker in the original play THE RUNNER STUMBLES. In the early 1970's he was the replacement for the role of John Hancock in Broadway's 1776. He went on to appear as a reverend in the 1972 big screen adaptation of the musical.

In 1961 he appeared as Gordon Douglas in the orignal drama A FAR COUNTRY and made his Broadway debut in the 1949 original comedy THE VELVET GLOVE as Professor Pearson. His other theater credits include 1963's STRANGE INTERLUDE.

However, Noble was best known for appearing opposite Robert Guillaume for seven seasons in BENSON, portraying Governor Gatling, an absent-minded politician. His other TV credits included episodes of The Love Boat, Perfect Strangers, Law & Order, and One Life to Live.

Noble is survived by his daughter, Jessica Katherine Noble Cowan.

Image courtesy of ABC