‘Soap’ Star Robert Mandan Dies At 86

The television actor, Robert Mandan, died on April 29. He was best known for his role as Chester Tate, the womanizer on the ABC show Soap.

Mandan died in Los Angeles after suffering through a long term illness, his friend, playwright and screenwriter Gary Goldstein confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.

The actor was born in Clever, Missouri, however grew up in Southern California. He then went on to major in theater at Pomona College.

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In 1956, he made his Broadway debut in Spreaking of Murder which was directed by Delbert Mann. He also was in the original 1970 production of the musical Applause.

He then began to transition into more television acting in the 1960s. Mandan joined onto shows like Edge of Night, The Doctors, and Edge of Tomorrow. For over 40 years he became a famed television actor, appearing in a variety of shows like The Facts of Life, Three’s Company, The Love Boat and Fantasy Island. 

However, his role on Soap is what really brought Mandan to fame. He played Chester Tate from 1977 to 1981.

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Although television acting was where he gained fame, he also made appearances on the big screen. He was casted in movies including The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Hickey & Boggs, MacArthur and Zapped!.

In the later part of his career, Mandan participated in a lot of local theater.

He is survived through his wife, Sherry.