James Houghton Obituary: Beloved Soap Star Passed Away

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News Summary

James Houghton, a renowned soap star and writer, passed away at 75 after battling peritoneal mesothelioma, leaving behind a legacy in daytime television.

Beloved Soap Star James Houghton Passes Away from Mesothelioma

On August 27, 2024, television lost an irreplaceable talent as James Houghton, the esteemed soap star and writer, succumbed to peritoneal mesothelioma at his charming home in Encino, California. He was 75 years old. Known for his profound influence on the daytime television scene, Houghton’s legacy in the industry will remain everlasting.

A Life Dedicated to the Arts

James Houghton was born on November 7, 1948, in the sunny city of Los Angeles, California. Coming from a family steeped in the entertainment world, he was the son of Buck Houghton, celebrated producer of the initial seasons of the iconic television series “The Twilight Zone.” Houghton was introduced to the performing arts at an early age, making his acting debut in 1959 on the TV drama “Man with a Camera.” By the age of just fifteen, he dazzled audiences with a guest appearance on “The Twilight Zone” in the gripping 1962 episode “The Last Rites of Jeff Myrtlebank.”

From the Screen to the Stage

Best known for his compelling portrayal of Greg Foster, a lawyer on “The Young and the Restless,” Houghton graced the screen from 1973 to 1976. His impressive talent was further showcased between 1979 and 1983, as he captivated audiences in 66 episodes of the highly popular series “Knots Landing” in the role of Kenny Ward, an ambitious record producer intricately involved with his on-screen wife, Ginger, played by Kim Lankford. Houghton also contributed his writing skills to the “Knots Landing” franchise, collaborating with his sister to co-write three episodes in 1982.

A Thriving Career and Incredible Contributions

James Houghton’s remarkable career path saw him return to “The Young and the Restless” as a writer in 1991, where he proved to be a driving force behind the show’s continued success. His excellence in writing earned him an impressive four Daytime Emmy Awards by 2007. Aside from his soap opera stints, Houghton appeared as Cash Cassidy, a U.S. senator, in “The Colbys,” a spin-off of the legendary series “Dynasty,” from 1986 to 1987. His versatility allowed him to take on diverse roles in prominent films such as “I Wanna Hold Your Hand,” “More American Graffiti,” and “Purple People Eater.”

A Heart for Giving and Family

Beyond his career in entertainment, Houghton was known for his philanthropic spirit. Passionate about supporting underprivileged youth, he dedicated time and resources to organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Special Olympics, and School on Wheels. His compassionate nature resonated not just on-screen but also within the community.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen, who met him at a T-ball game, and the couple married in November 1994. James also leaves behind his mother, Wanda; his sister, Mona; his children, Daniel and Alisa; his son-in-law, Jim; and his beloved grandson, Milo.

Legacy and Impact

Houghton’s remarkable contributions to television have made “The Young and the Restless” a dominating force in daytime ratings. His work not only shaped the landscape of modern soap operas but also created unforgettable memories for fans around the world. Although Houghton chose not to reprise his role as Kenny in the 1997 miniseries “Knots Landing: Back to the Cul-de-Sac,” his legacy as a true craftsman of performance and storytelling continues to shine through.

The impact James Houghton made during his lifetime resonates strongly. The television world mourns the loss of not just a brilliant actor and writer but a man whose heart was as large as his talent.