Pathetic Facts

American movie stars died in 1978

Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 1978:

Tim McCoy

Tim McCoy (April 10, 1891 Saginaw-January 29, 1978 Fort Huachuca) also known as Timothy John Fitzgerald McCoy, Col. Tim McCoy, Col. T.J. McCoy, Colonel Tim McCoy, Timothy John Fitzgerald "Tim" McCoy or High Eagle was an American actor, military officer and presenter. He had five children, Gerald McCoy, Margarita McCoy, Ronnie McCoy, Terry McCoy and D'Arcy McCoy.

Tim McCoy was an accomplished actor who appeared in over 100 films, mostly Westerns. He was also a decorated military officer, having served in both World War I and World War II. In addition to his acting career, he was a popular radio and television personality, hosting his own series, "The Tim McCoy Show," in the 1950s. McCoy was also known for his expert horsemanship and was a longtime advocate for the preservation of the Western way of life. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 86.

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Oskar Homolka

Oskar Homolka (August 12, 1898 Vienna-January 27, 1978 Sussex) also known as Oscar Homolka was an American actor. He had two children, Vincent Homolka and Laurence Homolka.

Homolka was born in Vienna and began his acting career in Austria-Hungary before moving to Germany and eventually settling in Hollywood. He appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, including notable roles in "The Seven Year Itch," "The Brothers Karamazov," and "The Invisible Man Returns." He was known for his versatility as an actor, effortlessly moving between comedic and dramatic roles. In addition to his work on screen, Homolka also worked on stage and performed in numerous plays in Europe and the United States.

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Jay Adler

Jay Adler (September 26, 1896 New York City-September 23, 1978 Woodland Hills) was an American actor.

He started his career in vaudeville and worked his way up to Broadway productions. Adler then appeared in over 100 films, often in supporting roles but sometimes in lead roles. Some of his notable films include "The Big Combo" (1955), "The Killing" (1956), and "Sweet Smell of Success" (1957). In addition to his film work, Adler also appeared in numerous television shows in the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason." He was also a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild.

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Chief Tahachee

Chief Tahachee (March 4, 1904 Crittenden County-June 9, 1978 San Gabriel) was an American writer, author and actor.

Born Harry Behn, Chief Tahachee was of Cherokee descent and took on his Native American name in his adulthood. He wrote several novels, screenplays and short stories based on Native American folklore and history. His most well-known work is the children's book "The Story of Little Big Man," which was also adapted into a movie in 1970. Tahachee also worked as a consultant and actor for Western films, often playing Native American characters. He was active in advocating for the rights of Indigenous people throughout his life.

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Daniel Reed

Daniel Reed (July 12, 1892 Colorado-February 9, 1978 Montrose) a.k.a. Daniel Aloysius Reed or Dan Reed was an American screenwriter, film director and actor. He had two children, Jared Reed and Susan Reed.

Reed started his career in the entertainment industry as an actor in silent films, often playing minor roles. He eventually transitioned into screenwriting and directing, becoming known for his work on westerns and action films. Some of his best-known films include "The Savage," "The Baron of Arizona," and "The Steel Helmet."

In addition to his work in the film industry, Reed was also an active member of his community. He served as mayor of Montrose, Colorado for several years and was known for his philanthropic efforts in the area. Despite his success in Hollywood, Reed remained dedicated to his hometown and his family throughout his life. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 85.

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Paul McGrath

Paul McGrath (April 11, 1904 Chicago-April 13, 1978 London) also known as Paul Owen McGrath was an American actor.

He appeared in over 150 films and television shows throughout his career, often playing tough or villainous characters. McGrath began his acting career on the stage in New York City, appearing in numerous Broadway productions in the 1930s and 1940s. He then transitioned into film and television, appearing in classic films such as "The Postman Always Rings Twice" and "The Manchurian Candidate". McGrath also had a successful television career, appearing in popular shows like "The Twilight Zone", "Perry Mason", and "The Rifleman". After his death in 1978, McGrath was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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Leslie Fenton

Leslie Fenton (March 12, 1902 Liverpool-March 25, 1978 Montecito) also known as Leslie Carter Fenton was an American film director and actor.

He began his career as an actor, appearing in over 50 films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Fenton made the transition to directing in the early 1940s and directed several films including The Return of Frank James (1940) and Street to Nowhere (1947). He also directed episodes for popular television series such as Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and The Twilight Zone. In addition, Fenton was a highly decorated veteran of World War II, serving in the Royal Air Force and receiving several medals for his service.

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Francis X. Bushman, Jr.

Francis X. Bushman, Jr. (May 1, 1903 Baltimore-April 16, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Ralph Everly Bushman, Francis X. Bushman Jr. or Ralph Bushman was an American actor. He had one child, Barbara Bushman.

Francis X. Bushman Jr. came from a family of actors. His father Francis X. Bushman was a well-known silent film star, and his sister Beverly Bayne was also an actress. Following in their footsteps, Bushman Jr. began acting in the 1920s and appeared in several films throughout his career.

In addition to acting, Bushman Jr. was also a pilot and served in World War II. He later became a successful businessman and served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 1964 to 1974.

Bushman Jr. passed away in 1978 at the age of 74 in Los Angeles, California. Despite being overshadowed by the success of his father and sister, he was still a respected figure in the entertainment industry and left a lasting impact on Hollywood history.

Noble Johnson

Noble Johnson (April 18, 1881 Marshall-January 9, 1978 Yucaipa) also known as Noble M. Johnson, Mark Noble or Noble Mark Johnson was an American actor, film producer, entrepreneur and writer.

He was one of the few African American actors in Hollywood during the early 20th century and often played stereotypical roles such as Native Americans and Africans on screen. Despite this, he became a successful character actor and appeared in over 140 films throughout his career.

Johnson started his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the early days of the silent era. He worked alongside famous actors like Lon Chaney and Douglas Fairbanks, and was even a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild. As a producer, he co-founded the Lincoln Motion Picture Company, which produced and distributed films featuring African American actors.

In addition to his work in film, Johnson was an accomplished writer, penning articles on the film industry for newspapers and magazines. He also co-wrote a book called "Black Hollywood: The Negro in Motion Pictures" which detailed the history of African Americans in Hollywood.

Later in life, Johnson retired to his ranch in Yucaipa, California, where he bred and trained horses. He died in 1978 at the age of 96.

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Ed Wood

Ed Wood (October 10, 1924 Poughkeepsie-December 10, 1978 North Hollywood) also known as Edward Davis Wood, Jr., Edward Davis "Ed" Wood, Jr., Ed Woods, Akdon Telmig, Dick Trent, Don Miller, E.D. Wood, Daniel Davis, Akdov Telmig, Edward Everett, Pete LaRoche, Edw. D. Wood Jr., Flint Holloway, Ed Wood Jr., Eddie, Edward D. Wood Jr., The World's Worst Director or Woody was an American author, screenwriter, film producer, film director, actor, writer and film editor. His child is called Kathleen Emily Wood.

Wood is best known for his work in the horror and science fiction genres, particularly his low-budget and often critically panned films such as Plan 9 from Outer Space, Glen or Glenda, and Bride of the Monster. Despite their poor reception at the time, Wood's films have since gained a cult following and are beloved for their campy charm and unintentional humor.

In addition to his work in film, Wood is also remembered for his colorful personal life, which included a brief stint in the United States Marine Corps, cross-dressing, and a lifelong struggle with alcoholism. He died from heart failure at the age of 54, but his legacy has continued to live on through his films and the many homages and parodies they have inspired over the years.

Gig Young

Gig Young (November 4, 1913 St. Cloud-October 19, 1978 Manhattan) a.k.a. Byron Elsworth Barr, Gig, Byron Barr, Ronald Reed or Bryant Fleming was an American actor. He had one child, Jennifer Young.

Gig Young began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in several movies including "Come Fill the Cup" (1951) and "Desk Set" (1957). He received critical acclaim for his performance in the film "Teacher's Pet" (1958) which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Young continued to act in movies and television throughout the 1960s and 1970s, appearing in popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Wild Wild West". He also received another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?" (1969).

Despite his success on the big screen, Young's personal life was plagued by problems, including several failed marriages and battles with addiction. Tragically, he died by suicide in 1978 at the age of 64.

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Louis Prima

Louis Prima (December 7, 1910 New Orleans-August 24, 1978 New Orleans) a.k.a. louis prima, Prima, Louis, louis_prima, Louis Prima with his Band, The King of the Swing or Luis Prima was an American singer, bandleader, trumpeter, actor and songwriter. He had four children, Louis Prima, Jr., Lena Prima, Toni Prima and Luanne Prima.

Prima began his career as a musician in the 1920s and gained popularity in the 1930s with his band the "New Orleans Gang." He later formed a successful partnership with singer Keely Smith in the 1950s, with hits such as "That Old Black Magic" and "Just a Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody." Prima was known for his energetic performances and his unique blend of jazz, swing, and pop music. His music has continued to be popular, with his song "Sing, Sing, Sing" featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the years. In addition to music, Prima also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as "The Jungle Book." He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

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Edgar Bergen

Edgar Bergen (February 16, 1903 Decatur-September 30, 1978 Paradise) otherwise known as Edgar John Bergen, Edgar John Berggren, Eddie, Edgar John Bergren or Charlie McCarthy was an American actor, ventriloquist, comedian, radio personality, voice actor and comic book creator. He had two children, Candice Bergen and Kris Bergen.

Bergen rose to fame in the 1930s and 40s with his ventriloquist act, with Charlie McCarthy as his main character. He regularly appeared on radio shows such as The Chase and Sanborn Hour and The Charlie McCarthy Show, where he would perform with his puppet. He also appeared on television shows and in movies, including Fun and Fancy Free and I Remember Mama.

Aside from his ventriloquism career, Bergen was also a creator of comic books. He created and wrote the comic book series, "Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd" in the 1940s. Bergen was a talented performer and was known for his impeccable timing and wit. He continued to perform and make appearances until his death in 1978.

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John Cazale

John Cazale (August 12, 1935 Revere-March 12, 1978 New York City) also known as John Holland Cazale was an American actor.

He appeared in only five films during his career, all of which were nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture: The Godfather, The Conversation, The Godfather Part II, Dog Day Afternoon, and The Deer Hunter. His role as Fredo Corleone in The Godfather films is widely regarded as his most iconic and memorable performance. Cazale was diagnosed with lung cancer during the production of The Deer Hunter, but he continued to work on the film until he became too ill to do so. He died shortly after the film was completed, at the age of 42. Despite his short career, Cazale's talent and impact on cinema have continued to be celebrated, and he is remembered as one of the most gifted actors of his time.

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Thayer David

Thayer David (March 4, 1927 Medford-July 17, 1978 New York City) also known as David Thayer Hersey was an American actor.

He was born into a wealthy family in Medford, Massachusetts, and attended Harvard University. However, he dropped out after one year to pursue his passion for acting. David found success on stage and television, including a stint on the soap opera "Dark Shadows" where he played multiple roles. He also appeared in numerous films including "Rocky," "The Reivers," and "Journey into Fear."

David was known for his distinctive voice and intense performances, often playing villains or characters with dark motives. He was a respected stage actor as well, appearing in productions of "King Lear" and "Macbeth" among others.

Sadly, David died of a heart attack in 1978 at the age of 51. He left behind a legacy as a talented actor who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry.

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Jack Oakie

Jack Oakie (November 12, 1903 Sedalia-January 23, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Lewis Delaney Offield, O (a) kie or Oakie was an American actor.

Born in Missouri, Oakie began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 80 films during his career, often playing comedic roles and earning a reputation as a skilled improv performer. Some of his notable credits include "The Great Dictator" (1940), "The Texas Rangers" (1936), and "Once Upon a Honeymoon" (1942). Oakie was also a dedicated collector of Hollywood memorabilia, including costumes and props from films such as "Gone with the Wind" (1939). After his death in 1978, a portion of his collection was donated to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

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Barry Brown

Barry Brown (April 19, 1951 San Jose-June 25, 1978 Silver Lake) also known as Donald Barry Brown or Baron was an American actor.

Barry Brown started his career in acting at a young age and quickly became a rising star in Hollywood in the 1970s. He appeared in several notable films including "The Bad News Bears", "Daisy Miller", and "The Ultimate Warrior". Brown was known for his naturalistic acting style and was highly respected by his peers in the industry.

Despite his promising career, Brown tragically died at the age of 27 when he was found dead in his apartment in Silver Lake due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. His death came as a shock to many who had worked with him and who admired his talent. While his career was cut short, Brown's legacy as an actor has continued to live on, with his films still being watched and admired by audiences today.

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Ian MacDonald

Ian MacDonald (June 28, 1914 Great Falls-April 11, 1978 Bozeman) also known as Ladd Pippy was an American actor and film producer.

MacDonald began his acting career in the 1940s, appearing in several films including "Murder, My Sweet" and "The Big Sleep." He later transitioned to producing films, and was involved in producing some of the most successful movies of the 1960s and 1970s, including "The Dirty Dozen," "Soylent Green," and "Escape from the Planet of the Apes." MacDonald was also a co-founder of A.C. Lyles Productions, a film production company that specialized in Westerns. In addition to his work in the film industry, MacDonald was a noted philanthropist and supported a variety of charitable causes.

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Philip Ahn

Philip Ahn (March 29, 1905 Highland Park-February 28, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Pil Lip Ahn, Phillip Ahn, Phil Ahn, Philson Wong, Philip Ann, An Pil-lip or An P'il-rip was an American actor and restaurateur.

He was the first Asian American male actor to be a regular on a television series, appearing on "The Korean Conflict" in 1952. Ahn also appeared in over 180 films and TV shows, including "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and "Kung Fu". He was renowned for his skill in martial arts and often played villains in his roles. In addition to his acting career, Ahn owned and ran a successful restaurant in Los Angeles called the Korea House. He was also a vocal advocate for Korean-American rights and served as an advisor to the Korean National Association. Ahn passed away in 1978 at the age of 72.

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Carl Betz

Carl Betz (March 9, 1921 Mt. Lebanon-January 18, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Carl Lawrence Betz was an American actor. He had two children, Richard Lawrence Betz and Rio Betz.

Betz was best known for his role as Dr. Alex Stone in the popular television series "The Donna Reed Show" which aired from 1958-1966. He won an Emmy Award for his performance in 1962. Betz also appeared in several films including "The Carpetbaggers," "All That Heaven Allows," and "The Silver Chalice." In addition to his acting career, Betz was also a talented singer and performed in musical theatre productions. He passed away from lung cancer at the age of 56.

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Shelly Novack

Shelly Novack (January 10, 1944 Los Angeles County-May 27, 1978 Santa Monica) also known as Sheldon Lennard Novack was an American american football player and actor.

Novack was a standout football player at the University of Idaho and was then drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1966. He also played for the New Orleans Saints and the Houston Oilers during his professional career. After retiring from football, Novack pursued a career in acting, appearing in various television shows and movies such as "Starsky and Hutch", "Wonder Woman", and "Sssssss". He was also a fitness enthusiast and worked as a personal trainer. Tragically, Novack was killed in a hit-and-run accident in 1978 at the age of 34.

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Bret Morrison

Bret Morrison (May 5, 1912 Chicago-September 25, 1978 Los Angeles) was an American actor and voice actor.

He was best known for his work on the radio drama "The Shadow," where he voiced the title character from 1943-1954. Morrison also had a successful career in film and television, appearing in over 50 movies and numerous TV shows. Some of his notable film credits include "The Enforcer" (1951), "The French Line" (1954), and "The Big Circus" (1959). On TV, he appeared in popular shows like "Perry Mason," "Gunsmoke," and "Adam-12." Morrison was also a talented stage actor, appearing in productions of "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "King Lear" among others. Despite his diverse career, he is still most remembered for his iconic portrayal of "The Shadow" on the radio.

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Karl Swenson

Karl Swenson (July 23, 1908 Brooklyn-October 8, 1978 Torrington) a.k.a. Swenson, Karl, Karl Swensen or Peter Wayne was an American actor and voice actor. He had one child, Steven Swenson.

Karl Swenson began his acting career in the 1930s in theater productions before transitioning to radio dramas and eventually to film and television. He appeared in over 70 films during his career, including "The Birds", "The Sword in the Stone", and "The Hidden Fortress". However, he is perhaps best known for his role as Lars Hanson, the father of the Ingalls' family friend, in the hit NBC series "Little House on the Prairie". In addition to his work in film and television, Swenson was a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous Disney projects, including "Lady and the Tramp" and "Pete's Dragon". Swenson was highly respected in the entertainment industry and was admired for his versatility and dedication to his craft.

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Dan Dailey

Dan Dailey (December 14, 1915 New York City-October 16, 1978 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Daniel James Dailey, Daniel James Dailey Jr. or Dan Dailey Jr. was an American actor, dancer and television director. He had one child, Dan Dailey III.

Dailey began his career as a dancer in vaudeville and on Broadway. He later transitioned to film, appearing in over 50 movies throughout his career. Some of his notable film roles include "When My Baby Smiles at Me" (1948), "The Mortal Storm" (1940), and "There's No Business Like Show Business" (1954).

Dailey also had a successful television career, appearing in several popular shows such as "The Four Just Men," "The Governor & J.J.," and "The Danny Thomas Show." He even went on to direct episodes of "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and "The Andy Griffith Show."

In addition to his acting and directing work, Dailey also served in the US Army during World War II.

Dailey passed away at the age of 62 due to complications from cancer.

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Arch Hall, Sr.

Arch Hall, Sr. (December 21, 1908 St. Louis-April 28, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. William Watters, Archie Hall, Nicholas Meriwether, Nicholas Merriwether, Nicholas Merriweather, Arch Hall, William Waters, Archibald Williams Hall, Waa-toe-gala Oak-Shilla or Arch Hall Sr. was an American actor, screenwriter, film producer, stunt performer, pilot and radio writer. He had one child, Arch Hall, Jr..

Arch Hall, Sr. began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio writer for KXOA radio in Sacramento, California. He eventually moved into the film industry and worked as an actor, screenwriter, and producer. He worked on various low-budget films such as "The Choppers" and "Wild Guitar" which both starred his son, Arch Hall, Jr.

Aside from his work in the film industry, Arch Hall, Sr. was also a stunt performer and pilot. He often performed his own stunts in the films he produced and acted in. In addition, he was a licensed pilot and flew various aircraft, including his own personal plane, for over 40 years.

Despite his contributions to the film industry, Arch Hall, Sr. remains relatively unknown to the general public. However, his influence can still be seen in the many low-budget films that he helped bring to life.

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Howard Estabrook

Howard Estabrook (July 11, 1884 Detroit-July 16, 1978 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Howard Bolles or Howard Esterbrook was an American screenwriter, film director, actor and film producer.

He was best known for writing the screenplay for the film "The Big House" (1930), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Story. Estabrook started his career in the film industry as an actor in silent films before transitioning to writing and directing. Over the course of his prolific career, he wrote and directed over 100 films and produced several others. Estabrook was also a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and served as its first treasurer. In addition to "The Big House," some of his other notable works include "Trader Horn" (1931), "The Unholy Garden" (1931), and "Before I Hang" (1940). Estabrook passed away at the age of 94 in Woodland Hills, California.

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Charles Wood

Charles Wood (April 23, 1916 Seattle-May 29, 1978 New York City) a.k.a. Charles 'Chuck' Wood or Chuck Wood was an American actor and singer. His children are called Charles Jr. Wood, Dianne Wood, Barbara Wood, Ronald Wood and Debra Wood.

Charles Wood initially pursued a career in music before transitioning into acting in the 1940s. He appeared in several films during the golden age of Hollywood, including "This Love of Ours" (1945) and "Greenwich Village" (1944). He also had a successful stage career, performing in numerous Broadway productions such as "Kiss Me, Kate" and "Can-Can." In addition to his work in entertainment, Wood was also a civil rights activist and was involved in several protests during the 1960s. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 62 due to complications from diabetes.

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James Daly

James Daly (October 23, 1918 Wisconsin Rapids-July 3, 1978 Nyack) also known as James Firman Daly was an American actor. His children are called Tim Daly, Tyne Daly, Pegeen Michael Daly and Glynn Daly.

James Daly was best known for his work in theater and television. He made his Broadway debut in 1946 and went on to appear in over 20 productions. Daly also had a successful career in television, with appearances in numerous popular shows such as "Dr. Kildare", "The Twilight Zone", and "Murder, She Wrote". He received an Emmy Award for his role in the TV series "Ben Casey". Daly was also a gifted voice actor and provided the voice for numerous characters in animated TV shows and movies. Outside of his acting career, he was an advocate for civil rights and actively supported the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). James Daly passed away in 1978 at the age of 59 from a heart attack.

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Robert Coogan

Robert Coogan (December 12, 1924 Glendale-May 12, 1978) also known as Robert Anthony Coogan was an American actor and child actor. He had one child, Jonathan Coogan.

Robert Coogan was born into a family of actors; his parents were Broadway performers and his younger brother, Jackie Coogan, was a famous child actor known for his role as Uncle Fester in the TV show The Addams Family. Robert began his acting career at the age of five and quickly made a name for himself in Hollywood. He appeared in over 50 films, including the popular Laurel and Hardy comedy "Babes in Toyland" and the critically acclaimed "The Champ" alongside Wallace Beery and Jackie Cooper.

Despite his success as a child actor, Coogan struggled to transition to adult roles as he grew up. He served in the Navy during World War II and afterwards, found it difficult to find acting work. He appeared in a few small roles in the 1950s before retiring from acting altogether. He later worked as a real estate agent in Southern California.

Coogan was married three times and had one son, Jonathan, who also became an actor. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 53 due to complications from heart surgery.

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Charles Boyer

Charles Boyer (August 28, 1899 Figeac-August 26, 1978 Phoenix) otherwise known as the last of the cinema's great lovers was an American actor, television producer and film producer. He had one child, Michael Charles Boyer.

Charles Boyer was born in France and had a successful career in French cinema before making his way to Hollywood in 1934. He quickly became known for his charming persona and romantic roles in films such as "Algiers" (1938) and "Gaslight" (1944), both of which earned him Academy Award nominations. In addition to his acting career, Boyer was also a skilled linguist and spoke several languages fluently. He served in the French army during World War I and was active in the French Resistance during World War II. Later in his career, Boyer appeared in several Broadway productions and worked as a television producer. He was married to British actress Pat Paterson until her death in 1970.

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Scott Newman

Scott Newman (September 23, 1950 Cleveland-November 20, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Alan Scott Newman, Allan Scott Newman, Allen Scott or William Scott was an American actor and stunt performer.

He was the son of legendary actor Paul Newman and actress Jacqueline Witte. Scott Newman began his career as a stuntman, working on films like "Sometimes a Great Notion" and "The Towering Inferno". He later transitioned into acting, starring in films such as "The Cycle Savages", "The Jayne Mansfield Story", and "Breakheart Pass".

Despite having a successful career, Newman struggled with drug addiction and alcoholism. On November 20, 1978, he died from an overdose of drugs and alcohol at the age of 28. In his memory, his father founded the Scott Newman Center for drug abuse prevention.

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Will Geer

Will Geer (March 9, 1902 Frankfort-April 22, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as William Auge Ghere, William Auge Geer, High Ghere or William Aughe Ghere was an American actor, botanist, singer and social activist. His children are called Ellen Geer, Kate Geer and Thad Geer.

Geer is best known for his role as Grandpa Zebulon Tyler Walton in the hit TV series, "The Waltons." Throughout his career, he acted in numerous plays on Broadway, including "Outward Bound," which was his breakout role. As a botanist, Geer founded the Theatricum Botanicum, an outdoor theater and botanical garden in Topanga, California. He was also a member of the Communist Party and was blacklisted during the McCarthy era. In 1951, he was called to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee but refused to answer questions about his political affiliations, resulting in his suspension from acting for several years. Despite this, Geer remained committed to social justice causes and continued to perform in theater and on television until his death in 1978.

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Bob Crane

Bob Crane (July 13, 1928 Waterbury-June 29, 1978 Scottsdale) a.k.a. Robert Edward Crane, Robert Edward "Bob" Crane or The King of the Los Angeles Airwaves was an American disc jockey and actor. He had five children, Robert David Crane, Robert Scott Crane, Karen Leslie Crane, Deborah Ann Crane and Ana Marie Crane.

Crane rose to fame in the 1960s as the star of the hit TV comedy "Hogan's Heroes," in which he played the sly and cunning Colonel Hogan, who leads a group of Allied prisoners in a German POW camp. However, behind the scenes, Crane was known for his wild partying and womanizing lifestyle. He was married twice, with his second marriage to Sigrid Valdis, who played his love interest on "Hogan's Heroes."

In addition to his acting career, Crane was also a successful radio host, working at several Los Angeles radio stations over the years. He was known for his charismatic personality and easygoing interview style, which made him a favorite of listeners.

Unfortunately, Crane's career was cut short when he was brutally murdered in his Arizona apartment in 1978. The case remains unsolved, but many believe that Crane's promiscuous lifestyle may have played a role in his death. Despite this tragic end, Crane's legacy as an influential figure in 20th-century entertainment lives on.

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Junius Matthews

Junius Matthews (June 12, 1890 Chicago-January 18, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Junius Conyers Matthews, Junius Mathews or Junius C. Matthews was an American actor and voice actor.

He began his career in vaudeville and later transitioned to film and television. Matthews appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, including "The Adventures of Robin Hood," "Alice in Wonderland," and "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh." He also provided the voice of Rabbit in the animated Disney franchise. In addition to acting, Matthews served in World War I and was a member of the Hollywood Anti-Nazi League.

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Frank Ferguson

Frank Ferguson (December 25, 1906 Ferndale-September 12, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Franklyn Ferguson, Karen Noel or Frank S. Ferguson was an American actor.

He started his acting career on stage and in radio and later transitioned to film and television. Ferguson appeared in over 300 films and television shows, including the films "The Maltese Falcon" and "My Friend Flicka" and the television series "Petticoat Junction" and "Bewitched." He was also a regular on the radio show "Gunsmoke." In addition to acting, Ferguson was also a voice actor and provided voices for animated films and television shows. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 71.

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Ben Gage

Ben Gage (October 29, 1914 Chicago-April 28, 1978 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Benjamin Austin Gage was an American actor, radio personality and singer. He had three children, Benjamin Gage, Susan Gage and Kimball Gage.

Gage's career began in the 1930s as a radio announcer, and he eventually became a popular radio personality in the 1940s. He also acted in films, with notable roles in "The Glenn Miller Story" and "Judgment at Nuremberg." Additionally, Gage provided the voice for various animated characters, including Alan-a-Dale in Disney's "Robin Hood." Later in his career, Gage became a successful record producer and record label executive. Despite his achievements, Gage struggled with alcoholism, which ultimately led to his early death at age 63.

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Chill Wills

Chill Wills (July 18, 1902 Seagoville-December 15, 1978 Encino) a.k.a. Chill Theodore Wills or Theodore Childress Wills was an American actor and singer. He had two children, Will Wills and Jill Wills.

Wills began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1930s. He appeared in over 300 films and TV shows, often playing a humorous sidekick or character actor. Some of his notable roles include Davy Crockett's sidekick, Beekeeper, in the film "The Alamo" (1960), and Uncle Bawley in "Giant" (1956). Wills also had a successful career as a voice actor, lending his voice to several animated films and TV shows, including Disney's "Robin Hood" (1973). In addition to his acting career, Wills was also a talented singer and recorded several albums throughout his career. He was known for his deep, distinctive voice and often sang western and country music. Wills passed away in 1978 at the age of 76.

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Barry Atwater

Barry Atwater (May 16, 1918 Denver-May 24, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as G. B. Atwater, B.A. Atwater, Garrett Atwater, Berry Atwater, B.G. Atwater, G.B. Atwater, Garrett "Barry" Atwater or "G.B." Atwater was an American actor.

He began his career in the late 1940s, appearing in various television dramas and stage productions. Atwater gained recognition for his role as Janos Skorzeny, the vampire antagonist in the television movie "The Night Stalker" in 1972. He reprised the role in the 1973 sequel "The Night Strangler". Atwater also had a noteworthy performance as a Nazi German officer in the 1962 film "The Longest Day". Throughout his career, he appeared in over 50 television shows and films. Atwater was also a respected stage actor and director, having worked on productions in New York and Los Angeles.

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Pat DiCicco

Pat DiCicco (February 14, 1909 Queens-October 24, 1978 New York City) also known as Pasquale DeCicco or The Glamour Boy of Hollywood was an American film producer and actor.

While DiCicco is primarily known for his work as a film producer and actor, he was also known for a number of high-profile relationships with Hollywood actresses. His marriages to Thelma Todd and Gloria Vanderbilt received significant media attention at the time. In addition to his Hollywood career, DiCicco was also involved in organized crime and had connections to the New York Mafia. He was once described by actor George Raft as "the toughest guy I ever met in Hollywood." DiCicco's life and career have been the subject of several books and documentaries.

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Joe Dougherty

Joe Dougherty (November 4, 1898 Missouri-April 19, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Joe Tapley Dougherty, Joseph Tapley Dougherty or Joseph Tapley "Joe" Dougherty was an American voice actor and actor.

He began his career in show business as a jazz musician before making the transition to acting in the 1930s. Dougherty appeared in over 150 films and TV shows throughout his career, often playing supporting or character roles. He is perhaps best known for his work in the Western genre, having appeared in many classic Western films and TV shows such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and The Lone Ranger. Dougherty was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to dozens of cartoons and animated films. Some of his most notable voice work includes the voices of Porky Pig and Daffy Duck in several Looney Tunes cartoons. In addition to his acting work, Dougherty also served as a pilot during World War II.

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Foy Willing

Foy Willing (May 14, 1914 Bosque County-July 14, 1978 Nashville) also known as Foy Willingham, Foy Willing and His Orchestra, Foy Willing and The Riders of the Purple Sage or Willing, Foy was an American actor.

In addition to being an actor, Foy Willing was also a musician and bandleader. He grew up in Texas where he formed his first band in the 1930s. Willing's band gained popularity and became known for performing Western swing music. In the 1940s, he became a regular on the Western radio program "The Old Homestead" and later appeared in Western films such as "Frontier Frolic" and "Cowboy Canteen". In 1948, Willing formed "The Riders of the Purple Sage", which became one of the most popular Western swing bands of the 1950s. The band recorded several hit songs, including "Tumbling Tumbleweeds" and "Stampede". Willing also composed several songs for Western films, including "The Timber Trail" and "The Last Frontier".

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I. Stanford Jolley

I. Stanford Jolley (October 24, 1900 Morristown-December 7, 1978 Woodland Hills) also known as J. Stanford Jolley, Stan Jollley, Isaac Stanford Jolley, Stanford Jolley, I. Stan Jolly, Stan Jolley, Stanford I. Jolley, I. Stan Jolley, Stan Jolly, Ike, Stan, Isaac Stanford Jolley, Sr., Jolley or I Stan Jolley was an American actor. He had two children, Stan Jolley and Sandra Jolley.

His acting career spanned over four decades, with Jolley appearing in over 500 films and television shows. He was known for his versatile acting skills and could play a wide range of character roles, from a villain to a comedic sidekick.

Jolley made his screen debut in the 1920s and worked mainly in B-movies throughout his career. He appeared in a number of Western films and was a frequent collaborator of director John Ford. He also had notable roles in films such as "The Ghost of Frankenstein" (1942), "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (1948), and "The Lone Ranger" (1956).

Jolley was also a regular actor on television, appearing in series such as "The Lone Ranger" (1956-1957), "The Adventures of Kit Carson" (1951-1952), and "The Range Rider" (1951-1953). He also had guest-starring roles on popular shows like "Gunsmoke" (1955-1975), "Bonanza" (1959-1973), and "The Twilight Zone" (1959-1964).

Jolley remained active in the industry right up until his death in 1978 at the age of 78. He is remembered as a prolific character actor who contributed greatly to the Golden Age of Hollywood.

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Norris Goff

Norris Goff (May 30, 1906 Cove-June 7, 1978 Palm Desert) a.k.a. Abner, Tuffy or Findley Norris Goff was an American comedian and actor.

He is best known for his role as Abner Peabody in the radio and television show "Lum and Abner," which he co-created with Chester Lauck. Goff also appeared in various films, including "Petticoat Junction" and "The Love Bug." In addition to his acting career, Goff was an accomplished musician and composer, playing multiple instruments and writing songs for the "Lum and Abner" show. He was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2001.

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Bill Bailey

Bill Bailey (December 8, 1912 Newport News-December 12, 1978 Philadelphia) was an American actor and dancer.

Bailey began his career as a performer on the vaudeville circuit and later transitioned to film and television. He appeared in over 50 films including "Cabin in the Sky" and "The Five Heartbeats". Bailey was also known for his tap dancing skills, which he often showcased in his performances. In addition to his work in entertainment, Bailey was a civil rights activist and worked closely with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He was posthumously inducted into the International Tap Dance Hall of Fame in 2003.

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Maston Williams

Maston Williams (April 23, 1879 Navarro County-July 15, 1978 Corsicana) a.k.a. Mastyn Williams, Matson Williams or Maston P. "Mack" Williams was an American actor.

Williams began his acting career on the stage in vaudeville and stock companies before transitioning to silent films in the 1910s. He acted in numerous films throughout the silent era and continued to work in Hollywood through the 1940s. He appeared in over 200 films, often in supporting roles, and worked with legendary directors such as Cecil B. DeMille, Frank Capra, and John Ford. Williams was known for his versatility and ability to play a variety of characters, from comedic to dramatic roles. In addition to his work in film, Williams also appeared on television in the 1950s and 1960s. He retired from acting in 1960 but continued to receive accolades for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Williams passed away in 1978 at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy as a prolific and talented actor.

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Lafayette Russell

Lafayette Russell (May 31, 1905 Osawatomie-March 16, 1978 Coffeyville) also known as Reb Russell, Lafayette H. Russell, Lafayette H. "Reb" Russell or "Reb" Russell was an American american football player and actor.

He played professionally for the New York Giants and the Chicago Cardinals before turning to a career in acting. As an actor, he appeared in over 20 films, mostly westerns, during the 1930s and 1940s. Russell was also a singer, songwriter and accomplished rodeo performer. He was inducted into the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum's Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1975. Russell passed away in 1978 at the age of 72.

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A. J. Bakunas

A. J. Bakunas (October 15, 1950 Fort Lee-September 21, 1978 Lexington) also known as Albert John Bakunas or Albert John Bakunas, Jr was an American stunt performer and actor.

Bakunas started his career in the early 1970s as a stuntman in the television series "Emergency!" and "S.W.A.T.". He then went on to perform stunts in movies such as "The Blues Brothers" and "Animal House". Bakunas was known for his fearlessness and expertise in high-speed car chases and motorcycle stunts.

Aside from his work as a stunt performer, Bakunas also had small roles as an actor in several films and TV shows. He appeared in "Magnum, P.I." and "The Dukes of Hazzard". Sadly, Bakunas' life was tragically cut short when he died in a motorcycle accident at the age of 27. Despite his short career, Bakunas left a lasting impact on the stunt community and is remembered as a skilled and daring stuntman.

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Wyatt Emory Cooper

Wyatt Emory Cooper (September 1, 1927 Pleasant Grove, Mississippi-January 5, 1978 New York City) also known as Wyatt Cooper was an American screenwriter, author and actor. He had two children, Anderson Cooper and Carter Vanderbilt Cooper.

Cooper graduated from the University of Mississippi and later moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. He appeared in a number of films and TV shows, including The Chapman Report, The Love Machine and The Boston Strangler. In addition to his acting career, Cooper also worked as a screenwriter and authored several books, including a memoir titled "Families: A Memoir and a Celebration." He was married to fashion designer and socialite Gloria Vanderbilt until his death in 1978 at the age of 50 due to complications from heart surgery. His death was a devastating loss for his family, and his son Anderson has spoken publicly about the lasting impact that his father had on his life and career.

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Steve Gravers

Steve Gravers (April 8, 1922 New York City-August 22, 1978 Studio City) a.k.a. Steven Gravers or Solomon Gottlieb was an American actor.

He began his career on stage before transitioning to film in the late 1940s. Gravers appeared in over 70 films and television programs throughout his career, often portraying tough and no-nonsense characters. Some of his notable film credits include "My Man Godfrey" (1957), "The Benny Goodman Story" (1956), and "Pork Chop Hill" (1959). In addition to acting, Gravers was also involved in politics and served as a delegate to the 1960 Democratic National Convention. He passed away in 1978 at the age of 56 due to a heart attack.

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Billy Gray

Billy Gray (March 17, 1904 New York City-January 4, 1978 Los Angeles) a.k.a. William Victor Giventer was an American comedian, businessperson and actor.

Gray began his career in the entertainment industry as a child actor in silent films. He later transitioned seamlessly into talkies, and played several notable roles throughout the 1930s and 1940s. However, he is perhaps best remembered for his role as James "Bud" Anderson Jr. in the popular television sitcom "Father Knows Best" (1954-1960). Beyond his acting career, Gray was also a successful businessman, owning and managing several companies in the aviation and aerospace industries.

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