Willard Sage was a Canadian actor who appeared in many television shows and movies, most notably as Thann in the Star Trek episode “The Empath”. He was also known for his roles in Ben Casey, The Butler’s Night Off, and Dragnet. But how did he die and what was the cause of his death? Here is the untold story of Willard Sage’s life and death.
Early Life and Career
Willard Sage was born on August 13, 1922 in London, Ontario, Canada as James Willard Sage. He studied architecture with Frank Lloyd Wright before pursuing a career in acting. He made his film debut in The Butler’s Night Off in 1951, playing a crook. He then moved to Hollywood and appeared in many television shows, such as Dragnet, Bonanza, Hogan’s Heroes, and The Virginian. He also had roles in movies like Dirty Little Billy and Scream, Evelyn, Scream!
Star Trek and Ben Casey
One of his most memorable roles was as Thann, a member of an alien race called the Vians, in the Star Trek episode “The Empath”. In the episode, he and his fellow Vian torture Kirk, Spock, and McCoy to test the empathy of a woman named Gem. He also played Dr. Steven Musgrove in two episodes of Ben Casey, a medical drama series that ran on ABC from 1961 to 1966. He received praise for his performance as a neurosurgeon who suffers from a brain tumor.
Personal Life and Death
Willard Sage was married twice. His first wife was Marjorie McKenna, whom he married in 1948 and divorced in 1969. They had two children together. His second wife was Judith Ann (Handel) Walston, whom he married in 1971 and divorced in 1972. He died on March 17, 1974 at the age of 51 in Sherman Oaks, California, USA. According to IMDb, he suffered from myelodysplastic syndrome and also coronary artery disease. His death was a shock to his fans and colleagues who remembered him as a talented and versatile actor.
Willard Sage cause of death was a tragic end to a promising career. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances that are still enjoyed by many viewers today. He will always be remembered as one of the stars of Star Trek and Ben Casey.
