“Hogan’s Heroes,” the classic American television sitcom that aired from 1965 to 1971, has remained a beloved show for many fans of classic TV comedies. The series, set in a German prisoner of war (POW) camp during World War II, followed the exploits of a group of Allied POWs who secretly used the camp as a base for their operations against the German war effort. The show was known for its light-hearted take on a serious historical period, and its ensemble cast became quite popular. But where are the members of the “Hogan’s Heroes” cast now? Let’s take a look at the main cast members and their lives after the show.
Bob Crane played the charismatic and clever Colonel Hogan, the leader of the POWs. After “Hogan’s Heroes” ended, Crane had a few guest appearances on television shows and starred in the short-lived series “The Bob Crane Show.” Tragically, his life came to a sudden end in 1978 when he was found murdered in his apartment in Scottsdale, Arizona. The case remains officially unsolved, though there have been suspects and theories over the years.
Werner Klemperer portrayed the bumbling and vain camp commandant, Colonel Klink. Klemperer, who was a Jewish refugee from Nazi Germany, insisted that Klink always be portrayed as a fool who never succeeded. After the show, he continued to act, appearing in various television shows and Broadway productions. Klemperer was also a talented musician and served as a narrator for several orchestral performances. He passed away in December 2000 from cancer.
John Banner’s portrayal of the lovable Sergeant Schultz, with his catchphrase “I see nothing! I hear nothing! I know nothing!” made him one of the show’s most endearing characters. Banner had a successful career in Europe before moving to Hollywood. After “Hogan’s Heroes,” he appeared in several TV shows and movies. Banner died in January 1973, just a few years after the series ended, from an abdominal hemorrhage.
Richard Dawson played the charming and witty Corporal Newkirk, the group’s expert safecracker and tailor. Following “Hogan’s Heroes,” Dawson became a regular panelist on “Match Game” and later the original host of “Family Feud,” where he was known for his trademark kissing of female contestants. Dawson passed away in June 2012 from complications of esophageal cancer.
Ivan Dixon portrayed Sergeant James Kinchloe, the communications expert. After the show, Dixon focused on directing and producing, working on numerous television series. He also had a significant role in the film “Car Wash” and directed the acclaimed film “The Spook Who Sat by the Door.” Dixon was an advocate for African American representation in the entertainment industry. He died in March 2008 from complications related to kidney failure.
Larry Hovis played the lovable and slightly goofy explosives expert, Sergeant Carter. Post “Hogan’s Heroes,” Hovis continued acting and also became a college lecturer on drama at Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University). He continued to make guest appearances on various TV shows until his death from cancer in September 2003.
Robert Clary brought to life the spirited Frenchman Corporal LeBeau, known for his cooking skills and patriotism. Clary is a Holocaust survivor and after the series, he spoke openly about his experiences during World War II. He continued acting in television and on stage, and also had a career as a singer. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, Robert Clary is the last surviving main cast member of “Hogan’s Heroes.”
Leon Askin played the stern General Burkhalter. After “Hogan’s Heroes,” Askin returned to Austria and continued his acting career in Europe. He also worked as a professor at the University of Vienna. Askin passed away in June 2005 at the age of 97.
Kenneth Washington, who joined the cast in the last season as Sergeant Baker, continued to act in television and film sporadically after the show’s conclusion. Information about his later life and career is relatively scarce compared to his co-stars.
As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, Robert Clary is the last surviving main cast member of “Hogan’s Heroes.”
Yes, several cast members had successful careers after the show. Richard Dawson became a popular game show host, and Ivan Dixon became a respected director and producer.
The cast members are remembered for their roles in the iconic show, with many having stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Their work continues to be celebrated by fans and in television history.
The cast of “Hogan’s Heroes” left an indelible mark on television history with their comedic portrayal of life in a WWII POW camp. While some members of the cast continued to have successful careers in the entertainment industry, others passed away not long after the show ended. Today, they are remembered for their contributions to television and, in the case of Robert Clary, for their efforts to educate others about important historical events. The legacy of “Hogan’s Heroes” and its cast continues to live on through reruns, fan events, and the memories of those who enjoyed their performances.
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