In Memory of Actor/Comedian Dick Gautier (TV's 'Get Smart'): 7 Years After His Tragic Death

Photo byimdb.com

It's been over three decades since actor Dick Gautier died at 85 from an undisclosed illness. Best known for his comedic role as Hymie the Robot on the classic TV spy-com, Get Smart (NBC, 1965-1970), Gautier initially gained fame portraying an Elvis-esque vocalist in the Broadway musical, Bye Bye Birdie. In the last few years of his life, the multi-talented, versatile performer and artist, was confined to a wheelchair. This is his story.

A Closer Look

Dick Gautier, born on October 30, 1931, in Culver City, CA, served in the U.S. Navy before he began a career in the entertainment, art, and publishing industries.

It all started with a stand-up comedy. Gautier and iconic comedian Mort Sahl were among the first to be booked at the Hungry I Club in San Francisco, which became a legendary venue up on the comedy circuit.

From there, Gautier performed in clubs across America, and for a time toured with the folk music group, The Kingston Trio.

In 1961, Gautier was Tony-nominated for his breakout performance as Conrad Birdie in the original Broadway production of Bye, Bye, Birdie.

That was followed by his second benchmark role, this time, on television as Hymie the Robot on Get Smart.

When Things Got Rotten

In 1975, Get Smart producer Mel Brooks would cast Dick Gautier in When Things Were Rotten, a short-lived, but acclaimed half-hour satiric take on the age-old Robin Hood tale.

In between TV guest appearances on shows like The Love Boat and Charlie's Angels, Gautier would be seen on the big screen as well. His movies include Divorce, American Style, Billy Jack Goes To Washington, and Fun With Dick And Jane.

Into this mix, Gautier lent his vocal talents to animated TV shows such as G.I. Joe, The Transformers, and The Smurfs.

Beyond Performing On Stage, Screen and Behind the Scenes

Beyond performing on stage and screen and behind the scenes of cartoons, Dick Gautier also enjoyed painting, sculpting, and drawing, particularly caricature work. So much so, that he authored and illustrated several books about drawing and how to become a cartoonist.

Lasting Impressions

In many ways, Dick Gautier (who married twice, and had three children) was a Renaissance man. In any creative field and endeavor, he excelled, and his work remains cherished by his countless fans around the world.

Dick Gautier in a promotional shot from the short-lived ABC comedy, 'When Things Were Rotten'Photo bycommons.wikimedia.org