Herbert ‘Cowboy’ Coward was an American actor best known for his roles in Deliverance, Ghost Town: The Movie, and Hillbilly Blood. He gained fame through his unique performances, particularly his character in Deliverance.
Personal and Family Life
Herbert Lee Coward was born on August 21, 1938, in Haywood County, North Carolina. He was married to Dorothy Eileen Ledford from August 6, 1960, until her death on September 6, 2011, and they had four children together. Before acting, he started his career in a Wild West show called “Ghost Town in the Sky,” where he performed live theater in the streets.
Career
Coward’s acting career began in 1961 at “Ghost Town in the Sky” in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. He later gained significant recognition for his role as a mountain man in John Boorman’s 1972 film Deliverance, where his performance became iconic and influenced various media. Despite not being a trained actor, his authentic portrayal made a lasting impact on his audience.
Death and Legacy
Herbert ‘Cowboy’ Coward passed away on January 24, 2024, in his hometown of Haywood County, North Carolina, as a result of a car accident. His legacy endures through his notable roles in film, especially in Deliverance, which continues to resonate in popular culture. Coward’s life reflected the spirit of authentic American storytelling.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Ghost Town: The Movie | 2008-10-08 | Harmon Teaster |
| Deliverance | 1972-08-18 | Toothless Man |
| Deliverance Reunion | 2014-06-30 | |
| La Classe américaine | 1993-12-31 | Frédéric’s Agressor #2 (archive footage) (uncredited) |
| Hillbilly Blood | 2011-12-18 | Himself |