Frederick West McCarren, a talented and charismatic everyman character actor, was born on April 12, 1951, in Butler, Pennsylvania. During his high school years at Butler Area Senior High School, McCarren showcased his acting prowess in numerous stage productions. His academic pursuits took him to the University of Cincinnati, Point Park College, and the prestigious Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College in Venice, Florida.
After completing his education, McCarren made his way to New York City, where he quickly landed a job in television commercials. This marked the beginning of a successful career in film and television. In his personal life, McCarren tied the knot with his loving wife, Lisa Hogan, on December 30, 1982. The couple initially resided in Tarzana, California, but later returned to McCarren's hometown of Butler, Pennsylvania, in the late 1980s.
As a devoted husband and father of six children, McCarren balanced his family life with a continued career in radio and television commercials. He was notably recognized for his roles as Dr. Sanchez in radio spots for the Mad Rex restaurant chain and the coach in a series of TV commercials for Dick's Sporting Goods, as well as various commercials for PNC, PPG, Comcast, and Builder's Surplus.
McCarren was one of seven children, with two brothers and three sisters. Tragically, his life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 55 on July 2, 2006, due to colon cancer at Butler Memorial Hospital in Butler, Pennsylvania.
