Introduction
“Soap,” the groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1977 to 1981, left an indelible mark on television history with its satirical take on soap operas. The show’s unique blend of humor, drama, and controversial storylines made it a cult classic. But what happened to the talented cast after the final episode aired? In this post, we will delve into the lives of the “Soap” TV show cast and discover where they are now.
Katherine Helmond (Jessica Tate)
Katherine Helmond’s portrayal of Jessica Tate was one of the highlights of “Soap.” Her character’s ditzy and lovable personality won the hearts of viewers. After “Soap,” Helmond continued to enjoy a successful career in both television and film. She starred in “Who’s the Boss?” as Mona Robinson, earning widespread acclaim. In her later years, she lent her voice to Pixar’s “Cars” series as Lizzie. Sadly, Katherine Helmond passed away in 2019, but her legacy lives on through her memorable performances.
Richard Mulligan (Burt Campbell)
Richard Mulligan’s role as the bumbling but good-hearted Burt Campbell made him a fan favorite. After “Soap,” Mulligan continued to shine on the small screen with his role in “Empty Nest,” a spin-off of “The Golden Girls.” His portrayal of Dr. Harry Weston earned him several awards, including an Emmy. Mulligan’s career spanned decades, but he passed away in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable characters.
Billy Crystal (Jodie Dallas)
Billy Crystal’s groundbreaking role as Jodie Dallas, one of the first openly gay characters on television, was a significant milestone in TV history. After “Soap,” Crystal’s career skyrocketed. He became a beloved comedian, actor, and host, known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” “When Harry Met Sally,” and as the host of the Academy Awards. Crystal continues to be active in the entertainment industry, with recent appearances in films and television shows.
Robert Guillaume (Benson DuBois)
Robert Guillaume’s character, Benson DuBois, was so popular that he earned his own spin-off, “Benson.” After “Soap,” Guillaume’s career flourished, and he won two Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Benson. He also provided the voice of Rafiki in Disney’s “The Lion King.” Guillaume continued to work in television and film until his passing in 2017. His contributions to the industry and his iconic roles remain celebrated.
Robert Mandan (Chester Tate)
Robert Mandan played the suave and often unfaithful Chester Tate on “Soap.” After the show, Mandan appeared in numerous TV series and films, including “Three’s Company,” “The Love Boat,” and “Santa Barbara.” He was a familiar face on television for many years, and his acting career spanned several decades. Robert Mandan passed away in 2018, but his work on “Soap” and beyond is fondly remembered.
Diana Canova (Corinne Tate)
Diana Canova’s role as Corinne Tate, Jessica’s daughter, was a significant part of the “Soap” ensemble. After the show, Canova continued to work in television, appearing in series such as “Throb” and “Home Free.” She also took on roles in theater productions and worked as a voice actress. While she may not be as prominent in the industry today, Canova’s contributions to “Soap” and her subsequent work are still appreciated by fans.
Richard Libertini (The Major)
Richard Libertini’s character, The Major, was known for his eccentric and unpredictable behavior. Libertini had a prolific career in both television and film, appearing in movies like “Fletch” and “Awakenings.” His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on a wide range of roles. Libertini continued to work in the industry until his death in 2016. His unique performances and memorable characters remain a part of his enduring legacy.
Jay Johnson (Chuck and Bob Campbell)
Jay Johnson’s ventriloquist act as Chuck and his dummy Bob Campbell added a unique element to “Soap.” After the show, Johnson continued to perform as a ventriloquist, achieving success with his one-man show, “Jay Johnson: The Two and Only!” He won a Tony Award for his performance on Broadway. Johnson remains active in the entertainment world, bringing joy to audiences with his ventriloquist talents.
Ted Wass (Danny Dallas)
Ted Wass played Danny Dallas, Jodie’s half-brother, on “Soap.” After the show, Wass transitioned from acting to directing, finding success behind the camera. He directed episodes of popular TV series such as “Blossom,” “Two and a Half Men,” and “The Big Bang Theory.” Wass’s shift to directing has been well-received, and he continues to contribute to the television industry in this role.
Donnelly Rhodes (Dutch Leitner)
Donnelly Rhodes’s character, Dutch Leitner, added a touch of roguish charm to “Soap.” After the show, Rhodes enjoyed a successful acting career, appearing in series like “Danger Bay” and “Battlestar Galactica.” His versatility as an actor allowed him to take on diverse roles in both television and film. Rhodes continued to work until his passing in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.
Conclusion
The “Soap” TV show cast brought laughter and drama to audiences with their unforgettable performances. While some cast members have passed away, their contributions to television history are cherished. Others continue to thrive in the entertainment industry, showcasing their talents in new and exciting ways. The legacy of “Soap” and its cast remains strong, reminding us of a time when television pushed boundaries and created timeless memories.
FAQs
1. What made “Soap” such a groundbreaking TV show? “Soap” was groundbreaking for its satirical take on traditional soap operas, its controversial storylines, and its inclusion of one of the first openly gay characters on television, Jodie Dallas, played by Billy Crystal.
2. How long did “Soap” air on television? “Soap” aired for four seasons, from 1977 to 1981, and became a cult classic for its unique blend of comedy and drama.
3. Did any cast members receive awards for their roles on “Soap”? Yes, several cast members received awards for their roles. Notably, Robert Guillaume won an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Benson DuBois.
4. What other notable roles did Billy Crystal have after “Soap”? Billy Crystal became a well-known comedian and actor, with notable roles in “When Harry Met Sally,” “City Slickers,” and as the host of the Academy Awards.
5. Are there any spin-offs related to “Soap”? Yes, the character Benson DuBois, played by Robert Guillaume, received his own spin-off series titled “Benson,” which aired from 1979 to 1986.
