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Entertainment • Actor

Harry Anderson

Harry Laverne Anderson was an American actor, comedian, and magician.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Harry Laverne Anderson was an American actor, comedian, and magician. He was best known for playing Judge Harold T. Stone on the NBC sitcom *Night Court* and later starred in *Dave's World*. Anderson combined stand-up comedy, magic, and acting throughout his career.

Early life

Harry Anderson was born in Newport, Rhode Island, on October 14, 1952. He later became known for combining stand-up comedy, magic, and acting in his career.

Television career

Anderson’s best-known television role was Judge Harold T. Stone on *Night Court*, which ran from 1984 to 1992. He later played columnist Dave Barry in the CBS sitcom *Dave's World*, which aired from 1993 to 1997.

Other work and appearances

In addition to sitcom roles, Anderson appeared in genre productions such as *It* and *Tales from the Crypt*. His public image also included his work as a magician.

Death

Anderson died on April 16, 2018, in Asheville, North Carolina. Available sources identify stroke as the cause of death.

Key facts

  • Harry Anderson was an American entertainer known for acting, comedy, and magic.
  • His most famous role was Judge Harold T. Stone on *Night Court* (1984–1992).
  • He later starred as Dave Barry in *Dave's World* (1993–1997).
  • He also appeared in works including *It* and *Tales from the Crypt*.
  • He was born in Newport, Rhode Island, and died in Asheville, North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Harry Anderson?
He was an American actor, comedian, and magician best known for *Night Court*.
What was Harry Anderson’s most famous role?
His best-known role was Judge Harold T. Stone on the NBC sitcom *Night Court*.
What other TV series was he known for?
He starred in *Dave's World* as Dave Barry.
When was Harry Anderson born?
He was born on October 14, 1952.
When did Harry Anderson die?
He died on April 16, 2018.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Anderson
    Supports: Birth name, dates, nationality, occupations, and best-known roles.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0026789/bio/
    Supports: Birth and death dates, birthplace, death place, occupations, and selected credits.
  3. Fandango — https://www.fandango.com/people/harry-anderson-948395/biography
    Supports: Career overview and prominence for Night Court and Dave's World.