Robert Machray was a character actor known for his recurring role on “Cheers” and for starring in a long-running TV commercial for M&Ms.
- Died: January 12, 2025 (Who else died on January 12?)
- Details of death: Died at his home in Los Angeles of complications from dementia and two strokes at the age of 79.
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Robert Machray’s legacy
For many people, the most recognizable role Machray played was Santa Claus. He starred in a TV commercial for M&Ms in which two of the anthropomorphic candies meet Santa while leaving treats for him by the fireplace. When they’re surprised to see that Santa exists, he is equally surprised to see the M&Ms, saying “They do exist,” then fainting. The ad first ran in 1996 and continues to air each holiday season, almost 30 years later.
Another notable role for Machray came in the iconic sitcom “Cheers.” He played Fire Marshal Dobbins in four episodes from 1990 to 1993. It was one of many sitcoms on which he appeared from the 1970s through 2010s, with guest spots on “Three’s Company,” “Roseanne,” “The Drew Carey Show,” “Parks and Recreation,” and others. He also showed up on such dramatic shows as “Profiler” and “Criminal Minds,” and he had two voice roles in a “Star Wars” video game.
In addition to his TV roles, Machray also had a successful career as a stage actor. He appeared on Broadway in the 1999-2000 revival of “Amadeus,” and was honored with a Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle for his portrayal of Orson Welles in “Orson’s Shadow.” In the ‘90s, he was artistic director for the Classical Theatre Lab in Los Angeles.
Tributes to Robert Machray
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter
