Background and career
David Hart (born February 6, 1954) is an American actor and singer best known for his portrayal of Sgt. Parker Williams on the television series In the Heat of the Night (1988 to 1995). He has appeared in numerous films. Hart continues to perform in theaters around the country, most recently performing as Charlemagne in Pippin and Oscar in The Odd Couple. He has also appeared in numerous commercials, including IHOP Restaurants, Maxwell House Coffee, Coors Light, John Deere, Pillsbury and GE.
Hart was raised primarily by his mother, Jeanette Lassiter Anderson, in Panama City, Florida. He attended local schools. His father, Lloyd Hart Jr., encouraged him to attend Chipola Junior College (now Chipola College) after seeing him perform in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, produced at Rutherford High School in Panama City. Hart was given an acting scholarship to go to the college in Marianna, Florida.
Hart is married to Anne Tabor. Hart has three children from a previous marriage, one of whom is author, actress, comedian, and YouTuber Mamrie Hart.
Hart recorded the song "Let It Snow" for the 1991 In the Heat of the Night Christmas CD Christmas Time's A Comin'. He was joined on the recording by A-Team Nashville studio pianist Hargus "Pig" Robbins. The song was produced by co-stars Randall Franks and Alan Autry.
The Practice – "Black Widows" (2000) as Detective Cranston Party of Five – "Tender Age" (1998) as Carlin Before Women Had Wings – (1997) as the sheriff Picket Fences – "To Forgive is Divine" (1996) as Dan Patterson A Father for Charlie – (1995) as Woodrow In the Heat of the Night (1988-1995) as Officer and Sergeant Parker Williams Aaron's Way – "Patches of Light" (1988) as Travis
Forgiven: The Legend of Jake Kincaid (2002) as Sheriff Bob Logan Before Women Had Wings (1999) as Sheriff Standoff (1998) as Agent Blond Land of the Free (1997) as Byrd To the Limit (1995) as Bodyguard A Father for Charlie (1995) as Woodrow Three Wishes (1995) as Brian's Father The Real McCoy (1993) as Business Man In the Line of Duty (1991) Disorganized Crime (1989) as Proprietor The House on Carroll Street (1988) as Stage Manager War Party (1988) as Rookie Cop Pat Hobby Teamed with Genius (1987) Legal Eagles (1986) as Marchek Silver Bullet (1985) as Pete Sylvester Fandango (1985) as Cecil The River (1984) as Harley The Island (1980) as Attendant
Sources
Net-worth figure: Celebrity Net Worth (October 2026), in USD. Biography and career facts: the person's Wikipedia article and linked reporting. Snapshot date for all StarWorth figures: 28 October 2026.
