Broadway Actor John Christopher Jones Dies at 77 After Parkinson’s Battle

John Christopher Jones, a respected Broadway actor with 16 stage credits, has died. He was 77 years old. Jones passed away on September 15 in New York City.

His death resulted from complications of Parkinson’s disease. His friend, Jeff Baron, confirmed the news. Jones was diagnosed with the condition in 2003.

A Resilient Career Defying Illness

John Christopher Jones continued acting for nearly two decades after his diagnosis. His determination was the subject of the 2024 documentary “Me to Play.” The film followed Jones and co-star Dan Moran as they prepared for a production of Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame.”

Both actors performed while living with Parkinson’s. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the project highlighted their incredible perseverance. It showcased the power of art in the face of physical decline.

On television, Jones appeared in series like “The Sopranos” and “Law & Order.” His film work included roles in “Moonstruck” and “Awakenings.” He was also a regular on two CBS sitcoms in the 1970s and 1980s.

Legacy on Stage and in Translation

Jones’s Broadway career was extensive and varied. He performed in David Rabe’s “Hurlyburly” and a revival of “The Iceman Cometh” starring Jason Robards. He also played Cogsworth in the original Broadway production of “Beauty and the Beast.”

He was a founding member of Shakespeare & Company in Massachusetts. Jones frequently performed Shakespearean roles in New York City. His work was seen at Central Park’s Delacorte Theater and Lincoln Center.

Later in life, Jones began a successful second career as a translator. His translation of “The Cherry Orchard” won a Lucille Lortel Award in 2012. He translated several other Chekhov plays, earning critical acclaim.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth, and their three children. His daughter, Char, is also an actress. Jones’s legacy encompasses a life dedicated to the theater.

The passing of John Christopher Jones marks the loss of a formidable talent. His long fight with Parkinson’s disease demonstrated profound courage. The Broadway community remembers him for his resilience and artistry.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the cause of John Christopher Jones’s death?

He died from complications of Parkinson’s disease. Jones had been living with the condition since 2003. His friend, Jeff Baron, announced his passing.

Which documentary featured his life with Parkinson’s?

The 2024 documentary “Me to Play” featured Jones. It followed his preparation for Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame.” He performed alongside Dan Moran, who also had Parkinson’s.

What were some of his notable Broadway roles?

He appeared in “Hurlyburly,” “The Iceman Cometh,” and “Beauty and the Beast.” In “Beauty and the Beast,” he originated the role of Cogsworth. His Broadway career spanned 16 productions.

Did John Christopher Jones have other careers?

Yes, he became an acclaimed translator of Anton Chekhov’s plays. His translation of “The Cherry Orchard” won a Lucille Lortel Award. This was a significant second act in his professional life.

Who survives John Christopher Jones?

He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth, and their three children. His daughter, Char Jones, is an actress. His sisters and many nieces and nephews also survive him.

Trusted Sources: The Hollywood Reporter, Associated Press, Playbill.