Bernard Fox, the versatile character actor who charmed audiences as the eccentric witch doctor Dr. Bombay on the classic ABC sitcom Bewitched, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 89. His death, due to heart failure at Valley Presbyterian Hospital in Van Nuys, California, was confirmed by publicist Harlan Boll, marking the end of a remarkable career spanning decades of television and film.
Fox, a proud Welshman, was not only known for his whimsical portrayal of Dr. Bombay but also for his comedic turn as the bumbling Colonel Crittendon in another iconic 1960s sitcom, CBS’ Hogan’s Heroes. His ability to embody both flamboyant and farcical characters cemented his place as a memorable figure in Hollywood.
From Titanic’s Crow’s Nest to Disney’s Chairman
Before captivating television audiences with his comedic roles, Fox began his acting journey with an uncredited part in A Night to Remember (1958), a poignant film about the Titanic tragedy. Interestingly, he returned to the story of the ill-fated ocean liner decades later, portraying Colonel Archibald Gracie IV in James Cameron’s blockbuster Titanic (1997). In a memorable piece of cinematic history, Fox delivered the iconic line, “Iceberg dead ahead, sir!” in the 1958 film, a chilling foreshadowing of the disaster.
Beyond live-action roles, Fox lent his distinctive voice to animated characters, most notably as the Chairman in Disney’s beloved animated features The Rescuers (1977) and The Rescuers Down Under (1990). He also ventured into adventure films, playing retired Air Force pilot Winston Havelock in The Mummy (1999), showcasing his range across genres.
His extensive filmography includes appearances in family comedies like Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo (1977), detective spoofs such as The Private Eyes (1980), and pirate adventures like Yellowbeard (1983). Fox consistently excelled at portraying sophisticated, upper-class characters, a testament to his refined demeanor and acting prowess.
Dr. Bombay: The Hilarious Witch Doctor of Bewitched
However, it is undoubtedly his role as Dr. Bombay in Bewitched that resonated most deeply with audiences. Appearing in 19 episodes of the series, which aired from 1964 to 1972 starring Elizabeth Montgomery, Fox’s Dr. Bombay was a scene-stealer every time he materialized onto the screen. This flamboyant and often bewildered witch doctor was summoned by Samantha and Endora to cure magical maladies with his bizarre concoctions and even more outlandish pronouncements.
The character’s enduring popularity led to reprisal roles in the Bewitched sequel Tabitha (1977), the daytime soap opera Passions (1999), and even a guest spot on Pee-wee’s Playhouse in 1989, demonstrating the lasting appeal of Dr. Bombay and Bernard Fox’s portrayal.
In a 1998 interview, Fox revealed the surprising inspiration behind his portrayal of Dr. Bombay. He drew from a Royal Navy officer he served with during World War II, recalling the officer’s nonchalant and humorous reaction to a logistical challenge. This real-life eccentricity informed Dr. Bombay’s quirky demeanor and comedic timing, making him a truly unique and unforgettable character. Fox himself contributed to the humor, improvising puns that became a hallmark of Dr. Bombay’s appearances, further solidifying his connection with the audience.
Beyond Bewitched: A Career of Versatility
While Dr. Bombay remains his most iconic role, Bernard Fox’s career was rich and diverse. He played the quintessential English valet Malcolm Meriweather on The Andy Griffith Show and even took on the role of Dr. Watson opposite Stewart Granger’s Sherlock Holmes in a 1972 television film adaptation of The Hound of the Baskervilles.
His guest-starring roles spanned a wide spectrum of popular television shows, including The Dick Van Dyke Show, Perry Mason, McHale’s Navy, F Troop, Columbo, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., Knight Rider, M*A*S*H, and Murder, She Wrote, showcasing his adaptability and consistent presence in television entertainment.
A dedicated enthusiast of magic and illusion, Fox was a long-time member of the prestigious Magic Castle in Hollywood, reflecting his appreciation for entertainment and performance beyond acting.
Bernard Fox is survived by his wife Jacqueline, daughter Amanda, and grandchildren David-Mitchel and Samantha, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable characters that continue to entertain audiences today. His portrayal of Dr. Bombay in Bewitched remains a testament to his comedic genius and enduring contribution to television history.
