James Hampton, who famously played Michael J. Fox’s father in the ‘80s film “Teen Wolf,” has died. He was 84.
The actor died from complications from Parkinson’s disease at his home in Fort Worth, Texas, a family spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter.
Hampton also portrayed Private Hannibal Shirley Dobbs on the ‘60s television series “F Troop.”
He earned a Golden Globe nomination for his role in the 1974 film “The Longest Yard,” co-starring Burt Reynolds. Hampton shared the screen with Reynolds in multiple projects including “The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing,” “W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings” and “Hustle.” Hampton also directed episodes of Reynolds’ ‘90s sitcom “Evening Shade.”
One of his best known roles was portraying Fox’s father in “Teen Wolf,” in which he has to tell his son they are descended from werewolves.
Other film roles include “Sling Blade,” “The China Syndrome,” and "Police Academy 5: Assignment: Miami Beach."
Hampton’s long list of TV credits include parts in “Gunsmoke,” “Days of Our Lives,” “Full House,” and “Who’s the Boss.”
"He loved (acting). He wasn't trying to be a big star, he loved his characters because he was so understated," his agent Linda McAlister told NBC News. "You didn't realize the impact he made."
Hampton is survived by his wife Mary, children James, Andrea and Frank and several grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, Hampton’s family requests people make donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
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