Jon Cedar, with his ever-wandering career path, was a familiar face to many television and film enthusiasts. Known for his warm and approachable demeanor, he is perhaps most fondly remembered for his recurring portrayal of the well-meaning yet clumsy Cpl. Karl Langenscheidt in the popular 1960s sitcom Hogan’s Heroes. The show, which revolved around the clever escapades of Allied prisoners in a German World War II camp, showcased Cedar’s comedic timing and likable persona.
Throughout his career, which spanned over three decades, Jon Cedar remained a consistent presence in both television and film. His work ranged from lighthearted fare like the 1988 comedy Feds, which followed a group of quirky FBI trainees, to more dramatic roles in shows like the long-running courtroom drama Matlock. Jon Cedar’s versatility allowed him to navigate both genres with ease, proving his adaptability as an actor.
Fans of cult cinema might also remember Jon Cedar for his role in the 1978 horror film The Manitou, a supernatural tale about an ancient Native American shaman who emerges from a tumor on a woman’s neck, played by Susan Strasberg. In addition to starring in the film alongside Tony Curtis and Burgess Meredith, Jon Cedar also contributed behind the scenes by co-writing the screenplay and serving as an associate producer.
Another standout moment in Jon Cedar’s filmography was his featured role in The Day of the Animals, a thrilling tale of nature gone awry deep in the wilderness. The movie further demonstrated his ability to hold his own in genre-driven projects that leaned into suspense and spectacle.
In more recent years, since the late ‘90s, Jon Cedar has stepped back from the spotlight, choosing to focus on nurturing the next generation of performers. He has since dedicated much of his time to working as an acting coach, sharing his extensive experience and knowledge with aspiring actors. Though his on-screen appearances have become fewer, his contributions to the entertainment world remain noteworthy and appreciated by those familiar with his diverse body of work.
When it comes to Jon Cedar’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to The Manitou (1978) as his standout performance—definitely the highest rated movie in his career. It’s clear that Jon Cedar brought a unique intensity to that role, which really resonated with audiences. On the other end of the spectrum, Swashbuckler (1976) tends to be viewed as the lowest rated film associated with Jon Cedar. While it had its moments, it just didn’t quite hit the same mark. Overall, Jon Cedar has had a varied career, but when people talk about his best and worst-reviewed work, Jon Cedar’s name is most often linked with these two titles.