James B. Sikking, a prolific actor celebrated for his Emmy-nominated performance in Hill Street Blues and his role in Doogie Howser, M.D., has passed away at the age of 90. Sikking, known to many as a memorable hill street blues actor, died on July 13th due to complications from dementia.
His publicist, Cynthia Snyder, confirmed that Sikking died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his loving family. Snyder released a statement highlighting the breadth of Sikking’s six-decade career, spanning television, film, and stage. “Sikking’s wonderfully exciting face gave us drama, comedy, tragedy and hilarious farse,” Snyder noted, emphasizing his “talent, integrity and imagination” that resonated with audiences.
Sikking’s most acclaimed role was as the stern but dedicated S.W.A.T. leader Lt. Howard Hunter in the critically acclaimed police drama Hill Street Blues. For his portrayal of Lt. Hunter throughout the series’ run from 1981 to 1987, Sikking earned an Emmy nomination in 1984. He also endeared himself to a younger audience as Dr. David Howser, the father of the titular child prodigy in Doogie Howser, M.D., which aired from 1989 to 1993. Beyond these iconic roles, Sikking maintained a steady presence on television, including a regular role in Brooklyn South (1997-98) and guest appearances in numerous popular series like Rawhide, Bonanza, Starsky & Hutch, The Rockford Files, Turnabout, General Hospital, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
His career extended to the silver screen, where he acted alongside Hollywood legends. Sikking appeared with Frank Sinatra in Von Ryan’s Express (1965) and Elvis Presley in Charro! (1969). His filmography also includes roles in acclaimed movies such as Ordinary People (1960), Scorpio (1973), Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (1984), The Pelican Brief (1993), Fever Pitch (2005), and Made of Honor (2008), showcasing his versatility across genres.
James B. Sikking as Lieutenant Howard Hunter in 'Hill Street Blues', the Emmy-nominated role that defined his television career.
Before his successful screen career, Sikking honed his craft on stage. He performed in productions of Exit Strategy, The Big Knife, Put Them All Together, Nobody Loves an Albatross, and toured in Neil Simon’s Plaza Suite.
Born James Barrie Sikking in Los Angeles on March 5, 1934, he was named after the celebrated author James Barrie. Snyder explained this connection, stating, “There is a bit of Peter Pan in James… his sense of imagination appeared whether playing roles on stage or screen.” Sikking’s passion for acting led him to study theater at UCLA, where he also met his wife, Florine Caplan. He served in the military before fully dedicating himself to his acting career.
James B. Sikking is survived by his wife Florine, his son Andrew, his daughter Dr. Emily Sikking, and four grandchildren. His legacy as a respected and versatile hill street blues actor and performer will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
