Mark York, the actor who memorably played wheelchair user Billy Merchant on The Office, has died at the age of 55.
York passed away on May 19 after a brief and unexpected illness, according to a local obituary. A paraplegic since 1988, York grew up in Ohio, but went to California to pursue a career in the film and TV industry.
York first appeared as Billy, the property manager for Dunder Mifflin’s office building, in The Office‘s Season 2 installment “The Injury,” with Michael Scott propping up the wheelchair user as an example of those dealing with disabilities — like Michael’s own George Foreman-grilled foot, for example. But Billy was too upbeat and positive for Michael’s purposes, and Michael soon embarrassed himself and insulted Billy (of course). Billy went on to be a recurring foil for Michael in the seasons to come, returning for a total of four episodes. York appeared again as Billy in the Season 2 finale “Casino Night” as well as the Season 4 premiere “Fun Run” and Season 5’s “Dream Team.”
The actor’s other TV credits include CSI: NY and 8 Simple Rules.
York isn’t the only Office alum we’ve lost in recent years: Hugh Dane, who played Hank the security guard on the NBC comedy, passed away in 2018 at the age of 75.
