Ethan Phillips

A stage-trained character player who endeared himself to TV audiences playing likable if somewhat geeky and enthusiastic supporting roles, Ethan Phillips was best known for his five-year stint (1980-85) on the popular ABC sitcom, "Benson" as press secretary Pete Downey. He remained visible as a frequent TV guest star on such series as "Murphy Brown," "NYPD Blue," "Law and Order" and "Star Trek: The Next Generation." Philips also appeared in small roles in a number of features, including his film debut in the acclaimed "Ragtime" (1981), "Glory" (1989), "Green Card" (1990), "The Man Without a Face" (1993) and "The Shadow" (1994).

Phillips had extensive stage experience with credits in regional theater, off-Broadway and Broadway. He was also a playwright whose original work, "Penguin Blues," was published in The Samuel French Collection of Best Short Plays and produced more than 150 times throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Phillips donned heavy makeup as a cast member of "Star Trek: Voyager" (UPN, 1995-2001). Playing Neelix, the ship's resident Talaxian scout, cook and comic relief, Phillips amused legions of "Trek" fans and ensured himself a steady gig throughout the show's run.