Charles Cyphers, beloved actor known for his role as Sheriff Leigh Brackett in the 'Halloween' franchise, has died at 85 from a brief illness in Tucson, Arizona, his manager confirmed on Sunday.

Cyphers' death marks the end of a distinguished career in film and television, where he was celebrated for his collaborations with director John Carpenter on cult classics such as 'Assault on Precinct 13,' 'The Fog,' and 'Escape from New York.' With notable roles spanning decades, including appearances in 'Major League' and 'Seinfeld,' Cyphers touched many with his performances and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. He was remembered fondly by colleagues like Nancy Kyes for his kindness and storytelling.

Born on July 28, 1939, in Niagara Falls, New York, Charles Cyphers embarked on a journey that would see him become a staple in the world of cinema and television. His early academic pursuits in dramatic arts equipped him well for a career in acting, graduating from both the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and California State University, Los Angeles, with a theater degree.

Cyphers' career began in earnest with his first feature film, 1974's 'Truck Turner,' where he shared the screen with notable actors including Isaac Hayes and Nichelle Nichols. However, it was his ongoing collaboration with legendary director John Carpenter that brought him significant recognition. Their professional relationship started with the film 'Assault on Precinct 13' in 1976.

Cyphers is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Sheriff Leigh Brackett in the original 'Halloween' film released in 1978. This role became iconic, and he reprised it in subsequent films, including 'Halloween II' in 1981 and more recently in 'Halloween Kills' in 2021. In 'Halloween Kills,' his character's storyline tragically culminates in seeking revenge against the infamous Michael Myers for his daughter’s death, only to be killed by Myers.

Beyond the 'Halloween' franchise, Cyphers brought his talents to other Carpenter films like 'The Fog' in 1980 and 'Escape from New York' in 1981. His versatility as an actor was evident in these varying roles, which further cemented his place in the realm of cult classics.

Cyphers' filmography extends beyond his works with Carpenter. He also appeared in notable films such as 'Coming Home' (1978), 'The Onion Field' (1979), 'Honkytonk Man' (1982), 'Major League' (1989), and 'Gleaming the Cube' (1989).

His impact was not limited to film. Charles Cyphers also had a prolific career in television with appearances on numerous popular shows. These include 'The Bionic Woman,' 'Charlie's Angels,' 'Wonder Woman,' 'The Betty White Show,' 'Starsky and Hutch,' 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' 'Dallas,' 'Night Court,' 'Seinfeld,' and 'ER.'

One of his most significant television roles was portraying Al Yaroker in the WB sitcom 'Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher' from 1996 to 1998. This role showcased his range and ability to engage audiences across different genres and formats.

Chris Roe, Cyphers' manager, confirmed the actor's passing due to a brief illness. Roe described Cyphers as a lovable and sensitive man who will be dearly missed. His sentiments were echoed by many of Cyphers' colleagues in the industry.

Nancy Kyes, who played his character’s daughter in 'Halloween,' expressed her sorrow over Cyphers' passing. She fondly remembered him as someone who could always be relied on for a kind word, a good laugh, and captivating stories. Her reflections highlight the personal loss felt by those who knew him well.

Charles Cyphers leaves behind a legacy marked by memorable roles and longstanding contributions to the entertainment industry. His diverse body of work across both film and television will continue to inspire actors and entertain audiences for years to come. He will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for the warmth and kindness he brought to his interactions with others.