Gary Frank

A longtime member of the famed Actors Studio, Gary Frank began studying in 1969 under the legendary Lee Strasberg, as well as renowned teachers Peggy Feury and Bill Traylor.

Frank’s screen career began in 1974 when he was cast by director Richard Donner in the television movie “Senior Year,” which evolved into the CBS series “Sons and Daughters,” where he starred opposite Glynnis O'Connor. He soon became a contract player at Universal Studios.

Just days after that series ended, Frank was cast by director Mark Rydell, alongside producers Mike Nichols, Leonard Goldberg, and Aaron Spelling, in the acclaimed ABC drama “Family.” His portrayal of Willie Lawrence earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1977. The series, which ran from 1976 to 1980, also starred James Broderick, Sada Thompson, Meredith Baxter, and Kristy McNichol.

Following the show’s successful five-season run, Frank built an extensive television and film career, appearing in numerous movies and guest-starring on many of the era’s most popular series. His credits include “The Streets of San Francisco,” “T.J. Hooker,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “Fantasy Island,” “The Love Boat,” “Hunter,” “Magnum, P.I.,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “L.A. Law,” “Hill Street Blues,” “Friday the 13th: The Series,” and “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.” He also appeared in the feature film “Deadly Weapon” and had a recurring role in “Remington Steele.”

He also starred in numerous television movies, including the acclaimed historical drama “Enola Gay: The Men, the Mission, the Atomic Bomb.” His film work includes the holiday movie “The Gift” opposite Glenn Ford, Dominick Dunne’s “People Like Us” with Eva Marie Saint, and the Eddie Murphy comedy “The Distinguished Gentleman.”

Beyond acting, Frank is an accomplished writer. He has written numerous scripts and is also a novelist. His recent memoir, “Up and Down,” offers a deeply personal and heartfelt look at the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments of his life and career.

Gary Frank has been married for nearly five decades to producer Carroll Newman. Together they have one daughter, Jess Frank.

For information on the Family 50th Anniversary Celebration with Kristy McNichol, Gary Frank, and their friends on October 25, 2026 at the Courtyard Marriott in Monterey Park, CA please email carolyn@niteofdreams.com