Charles Siebert, ‘Trapper M.D.’ Star, Dies At 84 From Covid-Related Illness

Charles Siebert, an actor and director best known as Dr. Stanley Riverside II in the M.A.S.H. spinoff, Trapper John, MD, has died at the age of 84. He passed away in California due to Covid-induced pneumonia.

He first trained in theater and got his start appearing in regional performances across the country, and he eventually gained roles in several notable Broadway productions like The Gingerbread Lady by Neil Simon, a revival of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and the musical Jimmy Shine with Dustin Hoffman.

Charles Alan Siebert was born on March 9, 1938 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He trained in acting at Marquette University under famed acting teacher Father John J. Walsh, and later also graduated from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. After cutting his teeth at productions for Shakespeare In The Park, The Williamstown Theatre Festival and plenty of other local stages, Siebert became known for Broadway and soap opera roles.

His TV career began in the late-1960s and included appearances on Another World, As The World Turns and One Life To Live. He later branched out into other shows and made appearances in films like …And Justice For All, and White Water Summer. He began his role in Trapper John, MD in 1979, and appeared in all 151 episodes of the show.

He gained interest in directing through directing seven episodes of Trapper John and went on to have a healthy career in episodic directing for shows like Xena: Warrior Princess, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Pacific Blue and Knots Landing. Siebert also appeared on several game shows beginning in the ’80s like $100,000 Pyramid and Match Game.

Siebert’s survivors include his wife Kristine, who he married in 1986; children Gillian and Christopher; step-children Kristina, Max and Jeremy; and brothers Ronald, Leonard, and Jack.

His family requested that people who wish to can donate to either of his favorite charities, Doctors Without Borders or World Central Kitchen, in his name in lieu of sending flowers or condolences.