David Hart

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 theater 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 and GE. Early life 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 Jr. 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.