Mark Dobies, the beloved soap opera star known for his roles in *Guiding Light* and *One Life to Live*, has passed away at the age of 65. The actor, who brought depth and passion to his performances on daytime television, died on March 11, according to an obituary released by his family. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, the loss has left fans, friends, and colleagues mourning the untimely passing of a true talent.
A Philadelphia native, Dobies was born on April 3, 1959, and grew up with a passion for sports, earning a scholarship to play football at Delaware Valley University. His athletic background would later complement his acting career, where he was known for his strength and authenticity on-screen. However, it was his transition to acting that allowed him to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment world.
Dobies’ first notable role came in 1997 when he appeared in the drama series *Fame L.A.*, but it was his portrayal of Dr. Noah Chase on *Guiding Light* that made him a household name. In 2000, his character became a fan favorite, appearing in 14 episodes and showcasing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of Dr. Chase garnered significant praise, with fans of the long-running CBS soap opera quickly taking to his charming yet complex character.
Following *Guiding Light*, Dobies found further success in his role as district attorney and serial killer Daniel Colson on *One Life to Live*, where he gripped audiences with his portrayal of a dark and twisted character. His career didn’t stop there; Dobies continued to appear in a range of roles on other hit television shows, including *All My Children*, *Melrose Place*, *Everybody Loves Raymond*, *Gossip Girl*, *CSI: Miami*, and *Fringe*. His comedic timing shone in shows like *Sabrina the Teenage Witch* and *Home Improvement*, while his dramatic range could be seen in his guest appearances on *Just Shoot Me!*.
Beyond his television work, Dobies graced the stage in the 2004 off-Broadway revival of *The Normal Heart*, which earned him critical acclaim. He expressed his excitement about the production, noting the “fabulous cast” and “well-written” material in an interview with *Soap Opera Digest*. His commitment to his craft was evident in every role he played, and his warmth and professionalism won him the respect of everyone who worked with him.
Dobies’ personal life was equally rich. Known for his kindness and generosity, he leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his family. Survived by his three children—Francesca, 27, Olivia, 24, and Robert, 21—as well as his mother Suzanne, brother Paul, and sister Sandy, Dobies’ passing is deeply felt by his loved ones. His family described him as a “loving father, accomplished athlete, and talented actor” who lived a life full of “passion, perseverance, and love.”
Mark Dobies’ former publicist, Alan Locher, expressed his grief on social media, calling the news of Dobies’ death “really sad and unexpected.” Locher fondly remembered working with Dobies on *Guiding Light*, stating, “I always knew him as a genuinely good guy.” Locher also asked fans to keep Dobies’ family in their thoughts during this difficult time.
Dobies’ impact on the soap opera world and the entertainment industry as a whole is undeniable. His acting talent, paired with his larger-than-life personality, made him a beloved figure in the industry. As fans and colleagues reflect on his legacy, it is clear that Mark Dobies will be deeply missed, but his contributions to the arts will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness his brilliance. Rest in peace, Mark—you will not be forgotten.
