Charles Cooper

Biography

Charles Cooper, born Charles Darwin Cooper, was a versatile American actor whose career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on both television and film industries from 1950 to 2001.

Cooper's talent shone not only on the big screen but also on Broadway, where he showcased his acting prowess in productions such as "The Winner" in 1954 and "All You Need Is One Good Break" in 1950, captivating audiences with his stage presence.

In the realm of television, Cooper made notable appearances in various iconic series, including portraying the outlaw Tate Masters in the western show "Cimarron City" alongside George Montgomery and John Smith, as well as taking on the role of Jack Rollins, a gunfighter, in an episode of "Lawman" in 1959.

One of his memorable performances was as Matt Yordy in the 1961 episode "Honest Abe" of "The Rifleman," starring Chuck Connors, showcasing his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters.

Cooper's versatility as an actor was further exemplified through his guest appearances on "Perry Mason," where he portrayed intriguing characters like the murderer Philip Strague in the 1958 episode "The Case of the Buried Clock" and Ben Willoughby in "The Case of the Poison Pen-Pal" in 1962.

However, it was Cooper's involvement in the Star Trek franchise that solidified his place in pop culture history. Fans fondly remember him for his portrayal of the Klingon Chancellor K'mpec in two episodes of "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and the Klingon General Korrd in "Star Trek V: The Final Frontier," showcasing his ability to immerse himself in diverse roles.

Beyond television, Cooper's filmography also includes notable roles in cinematic classics such as the Alfred Hitchcock film "The Wrong Man" in 1956, "A Dog's Best Friend" in 1959, the comedy "Valet Girls" in 1987, and the action-packed "Blind Fury" in 1989, where he shared the screen with Rutger Hauer, leaving an indelible mark on the silver screen.

Charles Cooper's dedication to his craft, coupled with his remarkable performances across various mediums, solidified his status as a respected and talented actor whose legacy continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.