Updated: July 24, 2025

Don Adams was an American actor and comedian best known for his role as Maxwell Smart in the classic television series "Get Smart."

Early Life:

Don Adams was born Donald James Yarmy on April 13, 1923, in New York City. He had a diverse heritage, with a father of Hungarian Jewish descent and a mother of German and Irish ancestry. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he contracted malaria, which affected his health for years.

Career Highlights:

Adams began his career as a stand-up comedian and gained fame for his role as Maxwell Smart, a bumbling secret agent in the 1960s sitcom "Get Smart" ( 1965 to 1970 ). The show was a parody of the spy genre, particularly the James Bond films, and became a cultural phenomenon. Adams' portrayal of Smart earned him three Emmy Awards from 1967 to 1969. Today

In addition to "Get Smart," Adams was known for his voice work, notably as Tennessee Tuxedo and Inspector Gadget in animated series. His catchphrases, such as "Would you believe...?" and "Sorry about that, Chief," became iconic in American pop culture.

Personal Life:

Adams was married three times and had seven children. His first marriage was to singer Adelaide Efantis, followed by Dorothy Bracken, and later Judy Luciano. He adopted his stage surname, "Adams," from his first wife to secure a better position in alphabetical listings for auditions.

Legacy and Death:

Don Adams passed away on September 25, 2005, at the age of 82, due to complications from lymphoma and a lung infection. His contributions to television and comedy have left a lasting impact, and he is remembered fondly for his unique comedic style and memorable characters.

Adams work continues to be celebrated, and "Get Smart" remains a beloved classic, showcasing his talent and influence in the entertainment industry.