Dennis Patrick (March 14, 1918 - October 13, 2002) was a well respected American character actor best known for his works in television shows like Dark Shadows, Somerset, and Dallas and movies like Joe.
He was born Dennis Patrick Harrison in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was married to actress Barbara Cason from 1970 until her death in 1990. She played the character of Mrs. Johnson in the film House of Dark Shadows (1970). At age 84 he died in a fire at his home in Los Angeles, California.
Though he was only Jason McGuire and Paul Stoddard in the television series "Dark Shadows" (1966) (Sheriff Patterson in the film House of Dark Shadows (1970)), Dennis Patrick was television's first vampire (as Dennis Harrison) in a 1950 episode of "Stage 13" (1950).
Died in house fire.
He sidelined frequently into directing, including the Emmy-winning "Gift of Tears." He also directed "Masthead" for the large screen.
His father's family came from Ireland and many of Dennis' character roles contained an Irish brogue.
Logged over 1,800 guest roles on TV programs during his four-decade career.
Made his acting debut at age 8 in a children's show production of "H.M.S. Pinafore."
Second wife Barbara Cason appeared as a regular on "It's Garry Shandling's Show." (1986), in which Dennis was brought into one episode as a possible love interest for Barbara.
