Ron McLarty was a versatile American actor, prolific audiobook narrator, and celebrated novelist whose career spanned several decades in television, film, and literature. Born on April 26, 1947, in East Providence, Rhode Island, McLarty carved out a unique niche in Hollywood, where he became known for his distinctive voice and his ability to embody a wide range of characters. One of his most notable roles was as Sergeant Frank Belson in Spenser: For Hire, the popular crime drama series based on Robert B. Parker’s novels. However, McLarty’s career extended well beyond the small screen, as he gained acclaim in theater, audiobooks, and literary circles, making him a true multi-hyphenate talent.
His journey from actor to renowned audiobook narrator and author is an inspiring tale of persistence, creativity, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment. McLarty’s work was marked by his commanding presence, whether on-screen, in his vocal performances, or through the written word. His contributions to the entertainment industry and literature have left an indelible mark on both fields.
Early Life and Education
Ron McLarty was born and raised in East Providence, Rhode Island. He attended local schools and showed a penchant for performing arts from an early age. McLarty’s love for storytelling and acting became apparent during his high school years, where he actively participated in school plays and developed a strong interest in drama.
After completing high school, McLarty went on to attend Rhode Island College, where he pursued his passion for acting. He graduated with a degree in Theater Arts, laying the groundwork for a career in performance. McLarty’s talent for acting, combined with his deep, resonant voice, made him stand out among his peers, and he soon made his way to New York City to further his career in acting.
Early Career: Stage and Television
McLarty began his career in theater, performing in regional theater productions and off-Broadway plays. His early work on stage helped him hone his craft and develop a strong sense of character, which would later serve him well in television and film. He was known for his ability to take on a wide variety of roles, from comedic parts to serious dramatic roles, and his stage experience allowed him to navigate the complexities of character development.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, McLarty made his way into television, landing guest roles on popular series such as Law & Order and The Equalizer. His distinctive voice and commanding presence made him a natural fit for law enforcement roles, and he often played police officers, detectives, and military personnel. McLarty’s ability to bring gravitas to these roles made him a sought-after character actor in both drama and crime shows.
His breakthrough in television came when he was cast as Sergeant Frank Belson in Spenser: For Hire in 1985. Based on Robert B. Parker’s bestselling detective novels, the series followed private investigator Spenser (played by Robert Urich) as he solved crimes in and around Boston. McLarty’s portrayal of Belson, a tough but loyal Boston cop, became one of the highlights of the show.
Spenser: For Hire and the Role of Sgt. Frank Belson
Ron McLarty’s role as Sgt. Frank Belson in Spenser: For Hire marked a turning point in his television career. The character of Belson was a gritty, no-nonsense detective who frequently worked alongside Spenser and was integral to many of the show’s storylines. As Spenser’s connection to the Boston Police Department, Belson was often caught between his duty as a cop and his respect for Spenser’s unorthodox methods of solving cases.
McLarty’s performance as Belson resonated with audiences due to his ability to imbue the character with a blend of toughness, humor, and loyalty. His on-screen chemistry with Robert Urich and the other cast members brought depth to the show’s crime-solving ensemble. Belson’s partnership with Spenser often provided moments of tension and camaraderie, and McLarty’s portrayal of a hardened detective with a moral code made Belson a fan-favorite character.
Spenser: For Hire ran for three successful seasons from 1985 to 1988, and McLarty’s work on the show helped solidify his reputation as a talented character actor. Even after the series ended, McLarty would go on to reprise the role of Belson in several of the Spenser TV movies, continuing his association with the beloved detective series and further cementing his connection to the character.
Audiobook Narration and Literary Success
While McLarty enjoyed a steady acting career, it was his work as an audiobook narrator that brought him widespread acclaim in a different medium. His deep, expressive voice made him a natural choice for audiobook narration, and over the years, he became one of the most sought-after narrators in the industry. McLarty’s ability to bring stories to life through his narration was unparalleled, and he lent his voice to a wide range of books, including literary classics, contemporary fiction, and non-fiction works.
Among his many audiobook credits, McLarty narrated works by major authors such as Stephen King, David Baldacci, and Elmore Leonard. His narration of King’s Salem’s Lot and Leonard’s Pronto are particularly noteworthy, as they showcase his ability to create distinct voices for multiple characters and convey the emotional depth of the story.
McLarty’s talents as a storyteller extended beyond acting and narration. In 2005, his debut novel, The Memory of Running, was published to critical acclaim. The novel had an unusual journey to publication: McLarty had originally written it as an unpublished manuscript, and after struggling to get it published traditionally, he decided to record it as an audiobook. His audiobook version caught the attention of author Stephen King, who publicly praised the novel in Entertainment Weekly, calling it “the best novel you won’t read this year.” King’s endorsement led to the book being picked up by a major publisher.
The Memory of Running tells the story of Smithy Ide, an overweight, alcoholic man who embarks on a cross-country bike ride after the death of his parents. The novel’s poignant exploration of grief, redemption, and self-discovery resonated with readers, and it quickly became a bestseller. McLarty’s success as a novelist added yet another dimension to his already impressive career.
Following the success of The Memory of Running, McLarty published several more novels, including Traveler (2007) and Art in America (2008). His writing was praised for its humor, emotional depth, and richly drawn characters, earning him a place among respected contemporary authors.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ron McLarty was known for his down-to-earth personality, and he often spoke about the importance of hard work and perseverance in his career. He remained humble despite his many accomplishments in acting, narration, and writing, and he continued to work steadily throughout his life.
McLarty was married to actress Kate Skinner, and the couple shared a deep bond, both personally and professionally. McLarty was also a father and was devoted to his family, balancing his professional life with his role as a husband and father.
Ron McLarty passed away on February 8, 2020, at the age of 72. His death marked the loss of a multi-talented artist who had left an indelible mark on several fields of entertainment. McLarty’s work continues to be appreciated by fans of television, audiobooks, and literature, and his contributions to these mediums have ensured his lasting legacy.
As an actor, McLarty brought authenticity and depth to every role he played, and his portrayal of Sgt. Frank Belson in Spenser: For Hire remains one of his most memorable television performances. His work as an audiobook narrator brought joy to countless listeners, and his novels showcased his talent as a writer with a unique voice.