Quantum Leap star and Oscar-nominated actor Dean Stockwell passed away on Sunday. The actor died peacefully of natural causes in his home early that morning, a representative of the family told Deadline. Stockwell boasts 200 credits, Emmy and Oscar nominations, and a 70-year career.
Stockwell launched his career as a child actor working on Broadway. He went on to star in many films including Ankles Aweigh, Kim, Gentleman’s Arrangement (which won him a Golden Globe), and the controversial 1948 film, The Boy with the Green Hair.
Stockwell returned to Broadway in 1957 in Compulsion before returning to film in 1959, reprising his role in the 1959 film version — which got him his first two Best Actor awards at the Cannes Film Festival. He earned Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor in Married to the Mob.
In television, Stockwell made a name for himself in Quantum Leap where he played Admiral Al Calavicci opposite Scott Bakula (NCIS). He received four Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe for the role. Stockwell’s television credits also include Battlestar Galactica, JAG, and NCIS, among others.
Bakula put out a statement in light of the recent news. “He became a dear friend and a mentor and we grew very close over the next five, very intense years,” he said in the statement, via Deadline. “Having been a famous child actor, he had a soft spot for every young actor who came on our set. He was very protective of their rights and safety and always checked in with them to make sure that they were ok. His big hearted response to the kids made all of us take notice and be better guardians ourselves.”
Stockwell retired from acting in 2015, pursuing a career change in art. He created art and exhibitions around the country under his full name, Robert Dean Stockwell.
He is survived by his wife Joy, and their two children, Austin and Sophie.