Answer: thorne

AnswerCrossword Clue
THORNESmith who wrote 'Topper"
THORNESmith, the novelist, creator of Topper.
THORNEAnthony Trollope's "Doctor ...."
THORNE"Topper" creator, ... Smith.
THORNEAuthor Smith of "Topper" fame
THORNEActress Courtney -- -Smith
THORNEPhysicist Kip