Legend of Get Smart Dies at 97, Leaving a Legacy of Laughter and Television History

The world of television has lost one of its great comedic treasures. David Ketchum, the actor, comedian, and writer best remembered for his scene-stealing role as Agent 13 on Get Smart, passed away on August 10, 2025, at the age of 97. His career stretched across decades of television history, marking him as both a beloved performer and a gifted writer whose humor shaped a generation of entertainment.

Born in Quincy, Illinois, in 1928, Ketchum discovered early on that he had a gift for timing, wordplay, and character comedy. After moving to Hollywood in the early 1960s, he quickly established himself in an era when sitcoms were at the center of American popular culture. His sharp wit and versatile acting ability landed him appearances on popular shows like I’m Dickens, He’s Fenster, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Camp Runamuck, where he played the quirky character Spiffy.

But it was his role as Agent 13 in Mel Brooks and Buck Henry’s satirical spy comedy Get Smart that secured his place in television history. Agent 13, the perpetually unlucky secret agent squeezed into mailboxes, lockers, and vending machines for surveillance duty, became a fan favorite. With his signature deadpan delivery and knack for physical comedy, Ketchum turned what could have been a forgettable side character into one of the show’s most memorable running gags. His brief appearances consistently stole scenes, proving that even a few seconds of screen time could leave a lasting impression when handled by the right actor.

Ketchum reprised the role years later in the 1989 television film Get Smart Again! and again in the short-lived 1995 Fox revival of the series. Each time, he managed to introduce his comedic genius to a new generation of viewers, demonstrating the timelessness of both the character and his performance.

Beyond acting, Ketchum was a prolific writer whose contributions behind the camera were equally significant. His pen helped craft episodes for some of the most beloved series in television history, including MASH*, I Dream of Jeannie, The Six Million Dollar Man, Wonder Woman, The Bionic Woman, Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, MacGyver, and Full House. His writing style combined sharp humor with an understanding of character dynamics, elevating the shows he touched and ensuring their enduring appeal.

In interviews, colleagues often described Ketchum as a quiet force of creativity—someone who didn’t crave the spotlight but who consistently delivered laughter and warmth through his work. While audiences remembered his physical comedy and iconic roles, those who worked alongside him cherished his generosity, intelligence, and genuine kindness.

Ketchum’s family released a statement calling him a man who left behind “a legacy of laughter, warmth, and timeless television moments.” He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Louise, their two daughters, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. His long marriage and devotion to family stood as a testament to his grounding values, balancing his Hollywood career with a deep commitment to his loved ones.

What made David Ketchum’s career so remarkable was not just the longevity, but the sheer range of his contributions. Few performers can say they were both a memorable character actor and a prolific television writer, yet Ketchum excelled at both. He bridged the gap between performing and storytelling, ensuring that whether he was on screen or working in the background, he was always shaping the way audiences laughed.

Fans, peers, and critics alike have taken to social media to share tributes, remembering his talent and his ability to turn even the smallest moment into a burst of joy. Clips of Agent 13 squeezed into improbable hiding places have resurfaced online, reminding the world of his brilliant comedic touch. For younger viewers, those moments are an introduction to a performer whose humor remains as fresh and funny today as it did half a century ago.

David Ketchum’s passing marks the end of an era in classic television, but his influence endures. From the slapstick antics of Get Smart to the sharp humor of MASH* and the lighthearted fun of Full House, his fingerprints are on some of the most enduring shows in American culture. He may no longer be with us, but the laughter he inspired lives on in reruns, scripts, and the memories of millions who grew up watching his work.

As one television historian aptly put it: “David Ketchum wasn’t just part of TV history—he helped write it, shape it, and make it fun.”

At 97, after a life filled with creativity, comedy, and devotion to both his craft and his family, David Ketchum leaves behind not only a rich legacy of laughter but also a reminder of the power of humor to connect, heal, and endure.