We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of this talented and respected actor. With a career that spanned over several decades, White left an indelible mark on the world of theater, soap operas, and movies.
He graced our screens with unforgettable performances in popular productions such as “All My Children,” “First Daughter,” “Sisters,” “Dallas,” “The Colbys,” “Love Is a Many Splendored Thing,” “Dave,” “Thirteen Days,” and “Armageddon.”
Peter White was born with a passion for acting, White’s journey began in 1954 with his first acting credit for the TV series “The Secret Storm.” However, it was during the 1960s and 1970s that his career truly flourished. It was during this time that he encountered a role that initially made him apprehensive due to its perceived risks.
In 1968, White fearlessly took on the role of Mart Crowley in the Off-Broadway premiere of the groundbreaking play “The Boys in the Band.” This production dared to explore the lives of a group of gay men attending a birthday party, which was considered daring and revolutionary at the time. Despite his initial reservations, White embraced the challenge and delivered a performance that showcased his talent and versatility.
The success of “The Boys in the Band” exceeded everyone’s expectations. On opening night, the cast had no idea of the profound impact their play would have. White recalled, “It was a 100 percent gay audience — and then the next day, it went crazy! We got a call to come to the theater early because there was such a crowd around the theater, you couldn’t get near it.” The play’s immense popularity led to a movie adaptation in 1970, where White reprised his role once again.
White’s illustrious career continued to flourish, and he became best known for his portrayal of Lincoln “Linc” Tyler in the beloved soap opera “All My Children.” This iconic role, which he played for six stints between 1974 and 2005, solidified his status as a soap opera veteran.
Despite his incredible success, White remained humble and grateful for the guidance he received throughout his career. He shared a poignant conversation he had with actress Myrna Loy, who became his mentor. She reminded him that taking risks is an essential part of being an actor. Those words proved to be invaluable and shaped White’s approach to his craft.
On November 1, 2023, we bid farewell to Peter White, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come. His passion, talent, and commitment to his craft will forever be remembered and celebrated.