James B. Sikking of Hill Street Blues and Doogie Howser, M.D. Dies at 90
James B. Sikking, a revered figure in the television and film industry, passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home on July 13, 2024, surrounded by his family.
He was 90 years old. Sikking’s career, which spanned over six decades, left an indelible mark on both the small and big screens, endearing him to audiences around the world.
Born on March 5, 1934, in Los Angeles, James Barrie Sikking was named after the famous author James Barrie, who penned Peter Pan.
He grew up in Southern California, attending El Segundo High School before enrolling at UCLA, where he graduated in 1959 with a degree in Theatre Arts. During his college years, Sikking also served in the military, an experience that would later inform his most iconic role.
Sikking is best known for his portrayal of Lt. Howard Hunter on the groundbreaking police drama Hill Street Blues, which aired from 1981 to 1987. His character, the stern and by-the-book leader of the precinct’s Emergency Action Team, became a defining role in his career.
The meticulous military look of Lt. Hunter was inspired by Sikking’s own drill instructor from his time in the Army, a testament to his dedication to authenticity in his roles.
Following the success of Hill Street Blues, Sikking reunited with creator Steven Bochco for the beloved medical dramedy Doogie Howser, M.D., where he played Dr. David Howser, the supportive father of the boy genius Doogie, portrayed by Neil Patrick Harris. This role further cemented his reputation as a versatile and reliable actor.
In addition to his television work, Sikking had an extensive film career. He appeared alongside cinematic legends such as Frank Sinatra in Von Ryan’s Express (1965) and Elvis Presley in Charro! (1969). His filmography includes notable titles like Ordinary People (1980), Star Trek III (1984), Made of Honor (2008), and Fever Pitch (2005).
He was also committed to raising funds for cystic fibrosis research and the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Through the SAG BookPals program, he spent 19 years reading to public school third-grade classes, earning the affectionate nickname “Jim the Reader.”
He married Florine Caplan, an author, in 1962. Together, they had two children, Emily and Andrew, and four grandchildren: Lola, Gemma, Hugh, and Madeline. His family was a source of immense pride and joy for the actor, and he cherished the time spent with them.
In his final years, Sikking faced health challenges, notably dementia, which ultimately led to complications causing his death. His publicist, Cynthia Snyder, confirmed that Sikking passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home on July 13, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Snyder’s statement highlighted that Sikking’s passing was peaceful and that he was with his loved ones in his final moments. Despite his health struggles, Sikking’s spirit and contributions to the arts and his community remained strong until the end.
Sikking’s dedication to acting continued into his later years, with his last roles including a guest appearance on The Closer in 2012 and the film Just an American the same year. He remained active in charity events, participating in celebrity golf tournaments and supporting various causes.
His humorous and humble nature was evident in his interactions with fans and colleagues, such as his memorable visit to a health center opening in a small Iowa town in 1982.
His expressive face and ability to bring depth to his characters won him admiration from both peers and audiences. His roles in Hill Street Blues and Doogie Howser, M.D. remain cultural touchstones, illustrating the range and impact of his performances.