James Sloyan, who played four characters across three 'Star Trek' series, dies aged 85

From the Newshound archive · first published 22 September 2026 · last updated 23 September 2026.

James Sloyan, the veteran character actor whose six-decade career spanned The Sting, Xanadu and five appearances across three Star Trek series, died on July 22 at his Sherman Oaks home surrounded by family. His death was made public on September 20 through an obituary. His family described him as "always present, always curious, courageous, inventive, loyal, as well as brash, mouthy and very urban — one-of-a-kind."

Sloyan played four distinct species in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Deep Space Nine and Voyager — a feat few guest actors matched.

On the big screen, he played mobster Mottola in The Sting alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford, one of the biggest Oscar-winning hits of the 1970s.

He is survived by his partner of six decades, Deirdre Lenihan, and their two children, Daniel and Samantha.