Scott Hylands was a Canadian actor best known for playing Detective Kevin “OB” O’Brien in the police crime drama ‘Night Heat’. The veteran performer built a long career spanning several decades in film and television, appearing in numerous acclaimed productions across North America. Now, the 83-year-old actor has passed away, with his family announcing the news through a heartfelt statement shared on social media. Scott Hylands passed away on Wednesday, July 29. His son Luke Hylands announced his passing in a statement memorialising his “forever hero and best friend” on Instagram. “Husband, Father, Actor, Director, Writer, Storyteller, Friend, and lover of life,” Luke wrote. “I am heartbroken to share the news that my Dad Scott has passed away on Wednesday night. Myself and my family are still trying to process this horrible loss.“
Luke Hylands pays tribute to his father
Luke continued his tribute with deeply personal reflections on his relationship with his father. “There simply are not enough words I can say about you right now. You are my forever hero and my best friend. Always and forever. I love you. Goodbye Dad. xo,” he wrote on the social media platform, capturing the profound impact his father had on his life and the lives of those close to him.
Scott Hylands’ early life and theatrical training
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Scott Hylands Douglas was born on February 27, 1943, in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada and was raised in British Columbia. He studied zoology at the University of British Columbia before transferring to theatre arts, where he discovered his passion for performing. After college, he pursued acting in New York City, where he made his off-Broadway debut as the lead in a 1965 production of ‘Billy Liar’. He also performed with the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco for several years before his onscreen debut in ‘Daddy’s Gone A-Hunting’ in 1969.
The veteran actor added ‘Fargo’ to a long list of celebrated television credits that showcased his versatility and enduring talent.Image credit (Instagram)
Scott Hylands’ extensive film and television careerOver the years, Hylands appeared in numerous films including ‘Operation Snafu’, ‘Fools’, ‘Slipstream’, ‘Earthquake’, ‘Bittersweet Love’ and ‘The Boys in Company C’. His television work spanned multiple decades, featuring appearances in shows such as ‘Griff’, ‘Kung Fu’, ‘The Magician’, ‘Wonder Woman’, ‘Police Story’, ‘The Waltons’ and ‘Hart to Hart’.Upon returning to Canada in the 1980s, Hylands landed the role of Detective Kevin “OB” O’Brien in the police crime drama ‘Night Heat’, which aired from 1985 to 1989. The actor was also known for playing Father Travis in ‘V’, which aired from 2009 to 2011. Over the years, he continued to build an impressive resume with appearances on shows like ‘NYPD Blue’, ‘The Outer Limits’, ‘The X-Files’, ‘Stargate SG-1’, ‘Supernatural’, ‘Fargo’, ‘Heartland’ and ‘Wynonna Earp’. His film work in recent years included roles in ‘Rememory’ in 2017 and ‘Elsewhere’ in 2019.Scott Hylands is survived by his wife Veronica, son Luke and daughter Rebecca, who carry forward his legacy as a dedicated performer and storyteller.
