Robert Machray (actor)

Robert Machray Ward (May 4, 1945 – January 12, 2025) was an American actor.^[1] He was perhaps best known for playing the recurring role of fire marshal Dobbins in the American sitcom television series Cheers.

Robert Machray
Born	Robert Machray Ward (1945-05-04)May 4, 1945 San Diego, California, U.S.
Died	January 12, 2025(2025-01-12) (aged 79) North Hollywood, California, U.S.
Occupation(s)	Stage and television actor
Years active	1977–2011

Life and career

Machray was born in San Diego, California.^[2][3] His stage career included numerous major roles at Shakespeare festivals, and major roles with companies such as the Los Angeles Civic Light Opera, Hartford Stage and Playwrights Horizons, among others.^[4]

Machray began his film and television career in 1977, appearing in the television film Panic in Echo Park.^[4] He then appeared in the sitcom television series Operation Petticoat.^[4]

Machray guest-starred in television programs including Cheers, Roseanne, Life Goes On, The Drew Carey Show, Suddenly Susan, Profiler and Three's Company.^[2][4] He also appeared in two films: Cutting Class (as Mr. Conklin) and The Master of Disguise.^[2] In 1983, he was cast in a summer stage production of My Fair Lady.^[4] He retired in 2011, last appearing in the satirical television mockumentary sitcom Parks and Recreation.^[5]

Machray lived in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, with his husband, Luigi Camperchioli. He died of complications from dementia and two strokes at his home on January 12, 2025, at the age of 79.^[6][7]