For decades my only familiarity with Dodson was as bumbling, mild-mannered Howard Sprague. Then, just a couple years ago I saw him portray a meek loser opposite Sally Struthers in 1972's movie "The Get Away".

But last night I was shocked to see him portray a world-wise police Detective in a 1966 episode of the Fugitive. It was really difficult to peel away the layers of "Howard" and visualize Dodson in the intended role.

He was also on a few eps of Archie Bunker’s place as a middle aged man who supposedly hit on the gay busboy who was related to Veronica the cook.

He was really good on "St. Elsewhere". He played a judge who was dying. I can't remember the disease he had. Nothing like Howard. He was a really good dramatic actor.

Dodson had a short scene in Pat Garrett and Billy The Kid as an Old West land baron type.

He has appeared in a lot of TV shows. I recall seeing him in a few episodes of Barney Miller.

I recall seeing him in a few episodes of Barney Miller.

I had forgotten about that. He was pretty good as an eccentric gun nut with a zest for mayhem. :cool:

Yeah, he killed his barber due to a bad haircut.