Joseph Maher

Biography

Joseph Sylvester Maher was born on December 29, 1933, in Westport, County Mayo, Ireland. He was one of ten children in a family where his father, Joseph Maher Sr., worked as a schoolteacher. In 1956, Maher emigrated to Canada, initially working for an oil company. His passion for acting led him to join the Canadian Players, with whom he toured for three years before relocating to New York City to pursue a career in theater.

Stage Career

Maher became a prominent figure in the theater world, particularly known for his performances in the plays of British playwright Joe Orton. He appeared in Broadway productions such as The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, King Henry V, The Royal Family, Night and Day, and Loot. His portrayal in Loot earned him a Drama Desk Award. Throughout his career, Maher received three Tony Award nominations for his roles in Spokesong (1979), Night and Day (1980), and Loot (1986). He was also nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award in 1991 for his performance in What the Butler Saw.

Film and Television Career

In addition to his stage work, Maher had a successful career in film and television. He appeared in over 40 films, including notable titles such as Heaven Can Wait (1978), Time After Time (1979), Frankenweenie (1984), Funny Farm (1988), My Stepmother Is an Alien (1988), Sister Act (1992), I.Q. (1994), Mars Attacks! (1996), and In & Out (1997).

Maher's television credits encompass a range of genres and roles. He appeared in soap operas like Guiding Light and Another World, and guest-starred in series such as MASH*, Wonder Woman, Ellery Queen, St. Elsewhere, ALF, Moonlighting, Thirtysomething, Murder, She Wrote, Seinfeld, Tales from the Crypt, and Chicago Hope.

Personal Life and Legacy

Maher was known for his versatility and skill in portraying a wide array of characters, from comedic roles to dramatic performances. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen and was openly gay, a fact that he did not publicly discuss but was acknowledged in obituaries and retrospectives. Maher passed away from a brain tumor on July 17, 1998, at his home in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 64. He was laid to rest in Aughaval Cemetery in his hometown of Westport, Ireland.

Joseph Maher's contributions to theater, film, and television left a lasting impact on audiences and the acting community. His performances continue to be celebrated for their depth, humor, and humanity.