Stanley Kamel, who portrayed Eric Peters on “Days of Our Lives” from 1972 to 1976, and Charles Kroger, Monk’s psychiatrist on “Monk” since 2002, has passed away. On April 8, 2008, Kamel’s agents discovered him dead in his Hollywood home from what seemed to be a heart attack.
He was 65. Kamel was born on January 1, 1943, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and he grew up in South River. At age four, he developed an interest in acting. After finishing high school, he enrolled in and completed his studies in the School of Fine and Applied Arts at Boston University.
Kamel relocated to New York City to study acting with the legendary Sandy Meisner. His acting career began in off-Broadway performances, and he eventually relocated to California to participate in Screen Gems’ New Talent Program.
In 1969, “Mission: Impossible” was where Kamel first appeared on television. When he was cast as Eric Peters on “Days of Our Lives” in January 1972, he finally got his big break. In 1976, he and Susan Martin, the mother of their daughter Annie, departed Salem.
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Kamel’s career as a supporting actor continued after he left “Days,” with parts in a wide variety of films and TV shows. His portrayals as Dylan’s father-in-law on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” a psychiatrist on “Murder One,” a suicidal boss on “Melrose Place,” and an AIDS-stricken lawyer on “L.A. Law” were among his most memorable.
For six seasons, he portrayed Adrian Monk’s psychiatrist on the USA Network’s smash hit series “Monk.”Earlier in his life, Kamel admitted, “I used to be more concerned with living for tomorrow, in a kind of fantasy world where I wasn’t really aware of what was going on around me.”
This admission was made in a 1974 article. As far as I’m concerned, all that matters is today. I enjoy each day for what it is. My life is entirely in my own hands. My discovery of my own identity was a slow process. Furthermore, I never stop educating myself.
Star of “Monk” Tony Shalhoub said, “Stanley Kamel’s warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit were only surpassed by his consummate talent and professionalism.” I’m going to miss him so much.
From the official USA Network statement: The loss of Stanley Kamel has left SA in mourning. Stanley was a vital part of the American family; he was exceptionally gifted and generous. We mourn his passing. Besides his brothers Stephen and Robert, Kamel is also survived by five nieces and nephews and six great-nieces and nephews.
The funeral was held at the Rezem Funeral Home in East Brunswick, New Jersey, on Sunday, April 13. East Brunswick’s Anshe Emeth Cemetery was the location of the burial.
