Andrew Duggan was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “12 O’Clock High,” “MASH,” and “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story.” With a towering height of 6’5″, he often portrayed authoritative characters such as generals and presidents.
Personal and Family Life
Born on December 28, 1923, in Franklin, Indiana, Andrew Duggan grew up in Texas and studied at Indiana University on a speech and drama scholarship. His education was interrupted when he served in World War II, where he formed a friendship with actor Melvyn Douglas. After the war, he pursued acting, becoming a prominent figure in film and television beginning in 1953. He married Broadway actress Elizabeth “Betty” Logue in 1954, and the couple had three children together.
Career Highlights
Andrew Duggan had a versatile acting career, becoming well-known for significant roles in both film and television. Some of his most notable performances include General Ed Britt on “12 O’Clock High,” Cal Calhoun in “Bourbon Street Beat,” and Murdoch Lancer in the series “Lancer.” Additionally, he appeared as John Walton in “The Homecoming: A Christmas Story,” which was the pilot for the popular series “The Waltons.” His ability to embody authoritative and devious characters contributed greatly to his success in the industry.
Death and Legacy
Andrew Duggan passed away on May 15, 1988, in Westwood, California, due to throat cancer. After his death, he and his wife were cremated, and their ashes were scattered at Lake Arrowhead, California. Duggan’s contributions to film and television remain appreciated, and he is remembered for his significant roles and commanding presence on screen.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Frankenstein Island | 1981-11-27 | The Colonel |
| Skin Game | 1971-09-30 | Howard Calloway |
| Seven Days in May | 1964-02-01 | Col. William “Mud” Henderson |
| In Like Flint | 1967-03-15 | U.S. President Trent |
| The Secret War of Harry Frigg | 1968-02-29 | Gen. Newton Armstrong |
| Bone | 1972-07-01 | Bill |
| A Return to Salem’s Lot | 1987-09-11 | Judge Axel |
| PT 109 | 1963-06-26 | Narrator (uncredited) |
| It’s Alive | 1974-04-26 | The Professor |
| It Lives Again | 1978-05-10 | Dr. Perry |
| Merrill’s Marauders | 1962-03-16 | Capt. Abraham Lewis Kolodny, MD |
| Palm Springs Weekend | 1963-11-05 | Police Chief Dixon |
| The Glory Guys | 1965-07-07 | Gen. Frederick McCabe |
| The Bravados | 1958-06-25 | Padre |
| Decision at Sundown | 1957-11-10 | Sheriff Swede Hansen |
| The Incredible Mr. Limpet | 1964-03-28 | Harlock |
| Patterns | 1956-03-27 | Harvey Jameson |
| The Missiles of October | 1974-12-18 | Gen. Maxwell Taylor, Army Chief of Staff |