Crane Jackson was an American actor best known for roles in “Sister Kate,” “Happy Days,” and various off-Broadway plays. He was born as Daniel David Dreis on March 21, 1933, in the Bronx, New York, and passed away on April 17, 2002, in Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Crane Jackson grew up in south Florida and graduated from Florida State University, where he studied Drama and Communications. He was married to Marta Dreis for 34 years, until his death. Following his graduation, he worked as a radio DJ in Louisiana and Washington, D.C., before pursuing an acting career.
Career Overview
After moving to Hollywood in 1967, Jackson converted a bowling alley into a theater, launching “The Uncommon Theater Series” with a production of “Moby Dick Remembered.” He produced more than 125 plays over a career spanning 30 years, and many of his productions received Drama Critics Awards. He also edited “The RAPPORT Magazine,” a quarterly book review publication in Los Angeles.
Death and Legacy
Crane Jackson died from a heart attack on April 17, 2002. His contributions to theater and his various acting roles have left a lasting impact on the communities where he performed. He is remembered not only for his acting but also for his dedication to supporting small theaters and nurturing talent in Hollywood.
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Sister Kate | Multiple Roles | 1989 |
| Punchline | Second Faculty Examiner | 1988 |
| In the Mood | Reporter #2 in Front Yard | 1987 |
| Deadly Alliance | Giovanni | 1982 |
| The Octagon | House Detective | 1980 |
| The Ordeal of Patty Hearst | Police Captain | 1979 |
| Happy Days | Hank | 1979 |
| The Next Step Beyond | Doctor | 1978 |
| The Krofft Supershow | Mr. Meeker (segment: Wonderbug) | 1977 |
| Fernwood Tonight | Congressman Robert Chambers | 1977 |
| A Sensitive, Passionate Man | Lou | 1977 |
| W.C. Fields and Me | Uncredited | 1976 |
| Lepke | First Judge | 1975 |
| Black Starlet | Bar Owner | 1974 |