David Birney

David Birney (April 23, 1939 – April 27, 2022) was an American actor and director. Known for his performances in both contemporary and classical roles, Birney had a diverse career in theatre, film, and television. He gained recognition for his portrayal of the title role in the television series Serpico. Birney also starred in Bridget Loves Bernie, an early 1970s TV series about an interfaith marriage. He later appeared as Dr. Ben Samuels in the popular medical drama St. Elsewhere from 1982 to 1983. Born in Washington, D.C., Birney graduated from Dartmouth College with a B.A. degree in English literature. He left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his versatile acting skills.