Pasadena, California — Character actor Rif Hutton passed away Saturday at his home after a yearlong battle with glioblastoma, his wife, voice actor Bridget Hoffman, confirmed. Hutton was 73 years old.
With a television career that boasts nearly 200 credits, Hutton is perhaps best known for his roles on popular series such as “Doogie Howser, M.D.” and “JAG.” His portrayal of Dr. Ron Welch on the 1990s show featuring Neil Patrick Harris marked a significant point in his career, where he appeared in 17 episodes over its four-season run.
Hutton also made a notable impact in the legal drama “JAG,” where he played Lt. Cmdr. Alan Mattoni in five episodes from 1997 to 2001. In addition, he had significant runs on the soap opera “General Hospital,” appearing in 32 episodes, and on the series “Tribes,” where he featured in 95 episodes.
Born Walter Hutton on Nov. 28, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas, he spent his childhood moving across the country as the son of a U.S. Air Force serviceman, primarily settling in New Jersey. His foray into acting began in eighth grade when he won a statewide competition performing a speech by Martin Luther King Jr., inspiring him to pursue a career in performance.
Hutton graduated from Seton Hall University and served in the U.S. Navy before diving into acting in the mid-1980s. He began his television career with guest spots on well-known series like “The Jeffersons” and “Remington Steele,” laying the groundwork for the extensive résumé that followed.
His career spanned various genres and included guest appearances on famous shows like “Seinfeld,” “ER,” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” The 1990s audience might also recall his memorable role in KFC commercials as Russ Beeler, the fictional restaurant owner.
In addition to live-action roles, Hutton was a prolific voice actor, contributing to major animated films such as the “Shrek” and “Kung Fu Panda” series. His talents were also evident in “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” showcasing his versatility in the industry.
Hutton’s film credits include appearances in “Stand and Deliver” and “The Thirteenth Floor,” as well as recent works like the 2022 comedy “Rattled!” He married Bridget Hoffman in 2001, and together they collaborated on numerous voice projects. Hutton is survived by Hoffman and their son, Wolfgang.
During the recent SAG-AFTRA strike, Hutton was a regular presence on the picket line, supporting fellow actors and advocating for their rights. He remained committed to the acting community until his last days, even participating in the National Brain Tumor Society’s Southern California Brain Tumor Walk to raise awareness and support for glioblastoma research.
Tributes have flooded in from friends and colleagues, many of whom remembered Hutton for his professionalism, generosity, and kindness. His dedication to acting and his community has left a lasting impression on those who knew him.