Soap opera star James Mitchell, who for 30 years entertained 'All My Children' fans as tycoon Palmer Cortlandt on the popular ABC daytime show, has passed away at the age of 89. Mitchell died of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which was complicated by a bout of pneumonia, his longtime partner Albert Wolsky said.
Mitchell's career spanned more than just 'All My Children.' He was an accomplished dancer and stage actor, with leading roles in hit Broadway shows like 'Paint Your Wagon' and Carousel.'
Mitchell was last seen on 'AMC' for the show's 40th anniversary episode on January 5. He first joined the cast all the way back in 1979. Mitchell was nominated for seven Daytime Emmy Awards for the role, but never took home a trophy.
Born in Sacramento in 1920 and trained as a dancer, Mitchell had leading roles in the Broadway musicals "Brigadoon" and "Paint Your Wagon," and danced on stage with the American Ballet Theater.
