Rif Hutton, Doogie Howser and JAG actor, dies of brain cancer at 73

Actor Rif Hutton has died at 73 after battling brain cancer, his family confirmed. Photo / Getty Images

Actor Rif Hutton has died at the age of 73 after a battle with brain cancer, his family has confirmed.

Best known for roles in Doogie Howser, M.D. and JAG, the veteran star died at his home in Pasadena, California, on Saturday after a more than one-year illness, his family told TMZ on Tuesday.

The outlet reported Hutton’s relatives said he died surrounded by loved ones, with the actor survived by his wife and son.

Hutton became a familiar face on television in his career, with recurring roles across major network series and soap operas, as well as work in film and voice acting.

He portrayed Dr Ron Welch across the four-season run of Doogie Howser, M.D. between 1989 and 1993, appearing alongside Neil Patrick Harris, who played the teenage doctor at the centre of the series.

He later appeared as Lieutenant Commander Alan Mattoni of the United States Navy in JAG, featuring from season three through to season six of the show’s 10-season run.

His television work also included roles in The Bold and the Beautiful and General Hospital, where he played multiple characters in the former and Lenny Caulfield in the latter.

Hutton was also recognised for appearances in commercials during the 1990s, portraying a restaurant owner for KFC.

In film, he contributed voice work to major animated productions including Shrek, The Princess and the Frog and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

Tributes were paid by colleagues, including fellow voice actor Steve Apostolina, who wrote on Facebook: “A remarkable human being has left this earthly plane. To say that Rif Hutton was one of a kind is a gross understatement. There will never be another like him – perhaps his son Wolfy will come closest.”

“Rif Hutton was a man of action. He inspired so many and leaves behind a legion of loyal admirers – people who loved him. Stories of his generosity would blow your mind.

“F*** cancer in general, but in particular glioblastoma [brain cancer]. I was lucky to cross his path and I am a better person for knowing him.”