Roy Thinnes, born on 6 April 1938 in Chicago, Illinois, is an American actor celebrated for his compelling performances across television and film. He is best known for his role as David Vincent in the cult classic science fiction series The Invaders (1967–1968), where he portrayed an architect who becomes embroiled in a desperate quest to expose and thwart an alien invasion. His performance in this series earned him a dedicated following and established him as a leading man in the television industry during the 1960s.
Thinnes began his acting career in the early 1960s, gaining recognition with his portrayal of Dr. Phil Brewer on the popular daytime soap opera General Hospital from 1963 to 1965. This role showcased his versatility and charm, opening doors to more significant opportunities in both television and film. After leaving General Hospital, Thinnes transitioned into prime-time television and appeared in several guest roles before landing his breakthrough role in The Invaders.
In The Invaders, Thinnes’s character, David Vincent, is a lone man fighting against an unseen alien threat. The series combined science fiction, suspense, and drama, and Thinnes’s intensity and conviction in the role made the storylines all the more gripping. The show’s episodic format often saw Vincent uncovering alien plots while evading their relentless attempts to silence him, creating a tense and engaging narrative structure. Although the series lasted only two seasons, it left a lasting impact on the genre and cemented Thinnes’s place in television history.
Following the success of The Invaders, Thinnes took on a variety of roles across genres. In 1969, he starred in the British-American science fiction film Journey to the Far Side of the Sun, directed by Robert Parrish. The film, which explored the discovery of a duplicate Earth on the opposite side of the sun, allowed Thinnes to delve further into the science fiction genre. He later appeared in disaster films such as Airport 1975 (1974), where he played co-pilot Urias, and The Hindenburg (1975), a historical thriller centred on the infamous airship disaster.
In the 1970s, Thinnes starred in the short-lived series The Psychiatrist (1970), where he played Dr. James Whitman, a young psychiatrist navigating complex cases. Although the show was not commercially successful, it showcased Thinnes’s ability to portray thoughtful and introspective characters. He also guest-starred in numerous other series during this time, including The Streets of San Francisco and Kojak.
During the 1980s, Thinnes appeared as Nick Hogan in the hit soap opera Falcon Crest, further solidifying his place in television. He also had recurring roles on One Life to Live as Alex Crown and later as Sloan Carpenter, a character central to several key storylines in the 1990s. In 1991, he starred as Roger Collins in the revival of the gothic soap opera Dark Shadows, bringing a fresh take to a beloved character from the original series.
Thinnes’s career continued into the 1990s with a memorable role in The X-Files. He portrayed Jeremiah Smith, a mysterious alien with healing powers, in two episodes that contributed significantly to the show’s mythology. His presence added a layer of intrigue and gravitas, reminding fans of his earlier work in science fiction. He was also considered for the role of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, further testament to his standing as a distinguished actor in speculative genres.
Beyond his screen work, Thinnes has been involved in stage performances and independent projects, reflecting his dedication to the craft of acting. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he has shown remarkable range and adaptability, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Roy Thinnes remains a respected figure in television and film, with his work on The Invaders continuing to be celebrated by fans of classic science fiction. His career is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and ability to bring authenticity to every role he undertakes.
Roy Thinnes: At a Glance
- Date of Birth: April 6, 1938
- Age: 86
- Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Roy Thinnes: Merchandise
Roy Thinnes Video Clips
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Roy Thinnes: Credits
Please note that the credits listed above are only those relevant to ScifiTVGuide. For a full list of Roy Thinnes credits please see her IMDB page here.
