In Memory of Bernie Hamilton

June 12, 1928 – December 30, 2008

Bernie Hamilton as Captain Harold C. Dobey

“See, this here’s my Captain and I take orders from him . . .”

There’s was just something about Captain Dobey that made you love and respect the man... and the actor who portrayed him.  In spite of his gruff exterior and attempts to make Starsky and Hutch tow the line, he loved “his boys” like sons and would do anything within his power—even if it were outside the law—to protect them.

Bernie Hamilton was a natural actor—you never saw him “work” as he portrayed the captain, and gave what could have been a very one-dimensional character many wonderful layers for us to discover and revel in.

You will be sorely missed.

 

“Now cracks a noble heart.  Good night, sweet prince and flight of angels sing thee to thy rest.”
Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, V, ii

~ William Shakespeare

 

Stories from the Cabrillo State Press featuring

Captain Dobey:

The front and back covers of one of Bernie’s R&B albums “Capt. Dobey Blows His Cover.” 

 

Note the insert picture on the front cover—the caption even reads “Dedicated to Starsky and Hutch”!

 

And yes, that’s S&H in Keystone Cop uniforms on the back cover.

In this photo, Bernie had written the character name of “Ben” in  “Body and Soul.”  I assumed he meant the 1947 movie of that title, but didn’t find him listed in the credits.

 

Still—lookin’ good, Cap’n—you should see the other guy!

 

A familiar face …

In unfamiliar places ...

Bernie with the legendary

Bob Marley.

He sure looks happy, doesn’t he?

Our Captain...

Dance on, dear friend.

 

And thanks...

for making us laugh

making us cry

making us cheer

and helping us remember the strength of the human spirit.

 

A Valentine’s Day card from Bernie’s “Chocolate Snowman” production company.