Edward Platt

Edward C. Platt (February 14, 1916 – March 19, 1974) was an American character actor best known for his portrayal of "The Chief" in the 1965-69 NBC television series Get Smart.

[edit] Early history

Platt was born in Staten Island, New York. He studied at Princeton University, majoring in romantic languages, but switched to study music at Juilliard with intention to have a career as an opera singer. Before the US joined World War II, he sang in a band with Paul Whiteman's Orchestra performing musicals such as The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado. During his time in the US Army, he served as a radio operator. After the war, he continued to appear on radio.

Platt debuted on Broadway in the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Allegro. He landed his first film due to José Ferrer who performed with him in the Broadway musical The Shrike. José and he played the same parts in the film version in 1955. Also in 1955 he appeared in the Academy Award nominated Rebel Without a Cause starring James Dean, Natalie Wood and Sal Mineo. Platt returned to Broadway in 1958 with the musical Oh, Captain! playing a romantic role. Later, in the 1960s, he worked on the spy comedy television show Get Smart. He played various cameos after the series ended.

Platt, with his deep voice and mature countenance, played an eclectic mix of characters over the span of his career.

Platt died unexpectedly of a heart attack in 1974; he was 58. He left behind four children from two marriages.