The classic crime drama Jake and the Fatman captured the imaginations of audiences in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Airing from 1987 to 1992, this police procedural series starred Joe Penny as Jake Styles, a charismatic investigator, and William Conrad as J.L. “Fatman” McCabe, a tough, no-nonsense district attorney. Together, they formed an unlikely yet effective crime-fighting duo that tackled some of Los Angeles’ most complex cases. Decades after the show ended, fans of Jake and the Fatman still fondly remember the characters and wonder what happened to the stars who brought them to life. Let’s explore the paths that Joe Penny, William Conrad, and other main cast members have taken since their time on this beloved show.
The Origins of Jake and the Fatman
Jake and the Fatman was a spin-off from the popular legal drama Matlock, which also featured William Conrad’s character, J.L. McCabe, as a hard-nosed DA. With a mix of gritty crime-solving and interpersonal dynamics, the show followed McCabe’s collaboration with private investigator Jake Styles as they tackled various criminal cases. Set initially in Los Angeles before moving to Hawaii in later seasons, Jake and the Fatman offered a unique twist on the buddy cop genre, with the contrasting personalities of McCabe and Styles forming the basis of much of the show’s appeal.
Joe Penny as Jake Styles
Joe Penny’s portrayal of Jake Styles was a standout performance. Penny’s natural charisma and good looks made him a fan favorite, and he brought depth to the character of a detective with both charm and resolve. Following the conclusion of Jake and the Fatman, Penny remained active in television and film, taking on a variety of roles that showcased his versatility as an actor.
Post-Jake and the Fatman Career
After the show ended, Penny appeared in several popular TV series, including Walker, Texas Ranger, Touched by an Angel, and CSI: Miami. He also took on roles in TV movies, often in crime dramas or thrillers, which allowed him to continue exploring his knack for portraying law enforcement figures. One of his notable later roles was in The Sopranos, where he appeared as Victor Musto, a love interest of Carmela Soprano. This role gave Penny an opportunity to show a different, more sensitive side of his acting talent.
Where He Is Now
Joe Penny’s appearances have become less frequent in recent years, as he has opted for a quieter life away from the spotlight. Though he hasn’t officially retired from acting, he is rarely seen on screen. However, his work in Jake and the Fatman and subsequent roles have left an indelible mark on fans of 80s and 90s television. He’s occasionally mentioned in reunions or retrospectives, and fans still hold out hope for a potential comeback role.
William Conrad as J.L. “Fatman” McCabe
William Conrad was already an established star when he took on the role of J.L. McCabe. His deep voice, commanding presence, and strong screen persona made him an ideal choice for the role of a district attorney with a tough approach to justice. Conrad had a long and varied career before Jake and the Fatman, including a successful run as the voice of the iconic radio detective Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke and later in the TV series Cannon.
Life and Legacy Post-Jake and the Fatman
Sadly, William Conrad passed away in 1994, just two years after the conclusion of Jake and the Fatman. His death marked the end of a significant era in television, as Conrad was a pioneer of both radio and television storytelling. His work left an undeniable legacy, and he is still remembered for his contributions to classic television series.
Legacy and Influence
Conrad’s portrayal of McCabe has influenced many crime show archetypes, especially in creating strong, authoritative characters who don’t fit the traditional leading man mold. His roles continue to be celebrated in television retrospectives, and his performances are often referenced as examples of the golden era of television acting.
Supporting Cast: Alan Campbell as Derek Mitchell
Alan Campbell joined the show as Derek Mitchell, a young and ambitious assistant district attorney working under McCabe. His character added another layer to the dynamic between McCabe and Styles, often providing a fresh, more optimistic perspective on cases.
Post-Jake and the Fatman Career
After the series ended, Campbell shifted his focus toward stage acting, finding success on Broadway and in regional theater productions. He is particularly known for his role in the musical Sunset Boulevard, for which he earned a Tony Award nomination. Campbell has continued to work in theater and has occasionally appeared on television and in films, though he largely remains associated with his success on stage.
Where He Is Now
Campbell remains active in the theater community, balancing his stage work with occasional TV and film appearances. He is celebrated for his work in musical theater and has built a reputation as a respected figure in the performing arts.
Other Recurring Characters
In addition to the main cast, Jake and the Fatman featured several recurring characters, each bringing unique contributions to the storyline. These roles were often played by talented character actors who went on to have notable careers in television.
- Jack Hogan as Det. Lt. Robert “Bob” Brooks: Hogan played a recurring role as a police lieutenant who often worked alongside Jake and McCabe. His experience in television and film spans decades, and he had a long-running role in the war series Combat!
- Supporting Guest Stars: Jake and the Fatman also featured a range of guest stars, including emerging talents who would later become stars in their own right. These included familiar faces such as Angela Lansbury, James Hong, and Cloris Leachman, who each added depth to the show’s episodes.
The Enduring Appeal of Jake and the Fatman
Despite the show’s relatively short run, Jake and the Fatman remains a beloved piece of television history. Fans of crime dramas still find value in the show’s portrayal of complex cases and the unconventional pairing of McCabe and Styles. Additionally, the series helped set the stage for future procedural dramas that blended legal intrigue with investigative storytelling.
The show’s ability to remain relevant, even after decades, speaks to the strength of its characters and the chemistry between its leads. Penny and Conrad brought authenticity to their roles, creating a dynamic that was both entertaining and endearing. Their characters’ friendship and professional partnership offered viewers a compelling look at how contrasting personalities could work together to achieve justice.
Conclusion: Jake and the Fatman, Then and Now
Jake and the Fatman provided a foundation for many of the crime dramas that followed, and its stars made significant contributions to the genre. Though William Conrad’s passing in 1994 left a gap in the entertainment world, his legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, including his time on Jake and the Fatman. Joe Penny, while not as active in recent years, remains an admired figure among fans who appreciate his contributions to classic television.
Today, Jake and the Fatman is remembered as a unique entry in the world of television crime dramas. With memorable characters, engaging stories, and a dynamic central partnership, the show’s impact can still be felt. For those who enjoyed the series, revisiting the adventures of Jake Styles and J.L. McCabe is a nostalgic journey into the golden age of television. As streaming services continue to bring classic shows to new audiences, Jake and the Fatman remains a beloved series that offers valuable lessons in storytelling, character development, and the timeless appeal of justice served.