Doug Sheehan, ‘General Hospital’ and ‘Knots Landing’ Actor, Passes Away at Age 75

Doug Sheehan, celebrated for his roles as Joe Kelly on General Hospital and Ben Gibson on Knots Landing, has passed away at the age of 75.

According to an announcement from Kane Funeral Home, Sheehan died peacefully on June 29  2024 at his residence in Big Horn, Wyoming, surrounded by his wife. The announcement did not disclose the cause of death.

Born on April 27, 1949, in Santa Monica, Sheehan made his screen debut in 1978 with a role in Charlie’s Angels.

He gained prominence as Joe Kelly, a lawyer, on the daytime soap General Hospital, where he appeared in 205 episodes from 1979 to 1982. His portrayal earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor.

Transitioning to prime-time television, Sheehan starred as reporter Ben Gibson on Knots Landing from 1983 to 1988, appearing in 115 episodes.

He further showcased his versatility as Brian Harper in the NBC comedy Day by Day, which aired from 1988 to 1989.

Sheehan also notably portrayed Mel Horowitz, Cher’s father, on the UPN sitcom Clueless during the 1990s, following his roles in shows like Cheers, Columbo, MacGyver, and Diagnosis Murder.

His final screen appearances included playing Edward Gibson in Sabrina the Teenage Witch in 2003 and a guest role in What I Like About You.

Doug Sheehan’s legacy spans decades of memorable performances across television, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.