Ted Hartley was a celebrated actor and two-time Tony-nominated producer who also served as the chairman and CEO of RKO Pictures.

What was Ted Hartley's connection to RKO Pictures?

In 1991, Hartley and his late wife, actress Dina Merrill, took control of RKO Pictures, the famed studio that released iconic films like King Kong and Citizen Kane.

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Legendary Actor and RKO Pictures CEO Ted Hartley Dies at 100

Q: What other roles did Ted Hartley have in his career?

Hartley had a diverse career, including acting roles in television shows like Peyton Place and Chopper One, as well as films such as Walk Don't Run, Murderers' Row, and Caddyshack II. He also served in the U.S. Navy, worked as a White House aide, and piloted jet fighters.

14 Nov

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Summary

Ted Hartley, a renowned actor and two-time Tony-nominated producer, has died
Hartley was also the chairman and CEO of RKO Pictures, which he took control of in 1991
Hartley had a diverse career, including acting roles, military service, and business ventures

Legendary Actor and RKO Pictures CEO Ted Hartley Dies at 100

On October 10, 2025, Ted Hartley, a renowned actor and two-time Tony-nominated producer, passed away in New York City at the age of 100. Hartley was a longtime resident of the Hamptons and had a diverse career that spanned acting, military service, and business.

In 1991, Hartley and his late wife, actress Dina Merrill, took control of the famed RKO Pictures studio, which had released iconic films like King Kong and Citizen Kane. Hartley served as the chairman and CEO of RKO Pictures until his passing.

Prior to his business ventures, Hartley had a successful acting career, appearing in television shows like Peyton Place and Chopper One, as well as films such as Walk Don't Run, Murderers' Row, and Caddyshack II. Despite his self-consciousness as an actor, Hartley was able to find roles that played to his strengths.