Charles Kimbrough Quotes

Powerful Charles Kimbrough for Daily Growth

About Charles Kimbrough

Charles Kimbrough (April 9, 1936 – June 11, 2011) was an accomplished American actor, author, and humorist, best known for his role as Jerry Dalla Fossa on the CBS sitcom "Murphy Brown." However, he also made significant strides in literature, leaving behind a rich legacy as a writer. Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Kimbrough's early life was filled with the influence of storytelling. His grandfather, a coal miner and amateur actor, instilled in him a love for performing arts. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Kimbrough attended Carnegie Mellon University, where he honed his skills as a writer and performer. Kimbrough's career spanned over five decades, with notable roles in theater, film, and television. His first major break was on "The Andy Griffith Show" in the late 1960s. However, it was his portrayal of the uptight news anchor Jim Dial on "Murphy Brown" that brought him widespread recognition. In addition to acting, Kimbrough was a prolific author. His first book, "Late For My First Death," published in 1975, was followed by several more, including "A Hole in the Fence," "Say Goodbye," and "The Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All." These books, often humorous and introspective, reflected his unique perspective on life and death. Kimbrough's work was influenced by his experiences and observations of the world around him. He had a knack for finding humor in the mundane and the poignant, making him a beloved figure in both acting and literature. His impact continues to be felt, with his words and performances continuing to inspire and amuse generations.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle."

This quote suggests empathy towards others, as it highlights that everyone we encounter in life may be dealing with personal struggles or challenges that we're unaware of. It encourages kindness and understanding, recognizing the inherent vulnerability and resilience in all individuals, and fostering a more compassionate society where people support one another through difficult times.


"The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not merely exist, but that you truly live."

This quote suggests that a meaningful life is one in which an individual is not just surviving or existing passively, but actively living with purpose and joy. To "truly live" implies experiencing life fully, engaging with it thoughtfully, and deriving happiness from the journey itself rather than simply the destination. It's about cultivating self-awareness and understanding that one's existence goes beyond mere survival or physical presence; instead, we should strive to create a rich, fulfilling experience for ourselves and others.


"True love is like a beautiful melody, it moves us profoundly and we never tire of hearing it."

This quote by Charles Kimbrough suggests that true love, much like a captivating melody, has the power to deeply touch our emotions and spirit. Just as one doesn't grow tired of listening to a beloved song, the love between two individuals remains inspiring and invigorating, never becoming monotonous or worn out. It is a profound and enduring connection that continues to move us in a positive way throughout our lives.


"To be content with what you have, is to want nothing more."

This quote by Charles Kimbrough suggests that being content with one's current possessions or circumstances means not desiring anything else beyond them. In essence, it implies a state of satisfaction and gratitude for what one already has in life, rather than always striving for more. Embracing contentment can lead to inner peace, fulfillment, and happiness, as one is no longer chasing after external validation or possessions to find satisfaction.


"Happiness comes from living as you need to, as you want to. As your inner voice tells you to. Happiness is a fancy word for living deeply and honestly; expressing yourself fully; enjoying the process of life."

This quote by Charles Kimbrough suggests that true happiness stems from authenticity and self-expression. Living authentically means following one's inner voice, desires, and passions, rather than conforming to societal expectations or external pressures. It encourages individuals to live deeply, honestly, and fully—embracing the process of life, rather than solely focusing on the end result. The quote suggests that happiness is not just a fleeting emotion but a state of living, where one finds joy in self-expression and the journey itself.


I've always been slightly self-conscious as an actor, and I guess that sometimes reads as pomposity. Starting when I was 30, I somehow gave off an impression at an audition that had them mentally put me in a three-piece suit or put an attache case in my hand. If there was a stiff-guy part, the director would brighten up when I came in.

- Charles Kimbrough

Sometimes, Been, Slightly, Brighten

When you're starting out as an actor, you keep raising the stakes. First, you just want to be a character who comes on stage and gets a laugh or two and exits. Just five minutes on a stage, not even Broadway. But every time you say your little prayer at night, you place more demands.

- Charles Kimbrough

Two, Broadway, Your, Stakes

Frankly, to be honest, I hadn't worked for two years before 'Murphy Brown.' It's a nice illusion now to think of all of us as terribly successful and talented people at the top of our profession, but that's hindsight. I had to pray for a job like this.

- Charles Kimbrough

Hindsight, Before, Terribly, To Be Honest

I come from a wonderful family. My mother was a pianist and my father was a salesman. They were very middle-class, very middle-Western.

- Charles Kimbrough

Father, Middle-Class, Very, Salesman

I came out of school just at the time regional theater was first expanding. All of a sudden, lots of new companies needed actors.

- Charles Kimbrough

New, Expanding, Regional, Sudden

I didn't want to break with my family. I wasn't about to make waves. But I had this feeling I wanted to do something that I liked to do. Acting's what I liked to do most. There must have been a moment when I felt, 'Oh, my God, I like this and what am I going to do about it?'

- Charles Kimbrough

Been, About, Had, Oh My God

It's funny because all through the '80s I didn't do TV and movies very much. I prided myself that I was making a living in the theater.

- Charles Kimbrough

Through, Very, TV, Making A Living

If you're searching for quotes on a different topic, feel free to browse our Topics page or explore a diverse collection of quotes from various Authors to find inspiration.