James Olson was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The Andromeda Strain, Rachel, Rachel, and Ragtime. Born on October 8, 1930, in Evanston, Illinois, he had a career spanning multiple decades in theater, film, and television.
Personal and Family Life
James Olson was the son of LeRoy Olson, an engineer, and Florence M. Nelson. He had one sibling, a brother named LeRoy Raymond Olson Jr. Throughout his life, Olson remained private about his family and personal affairs, and he did not have any children.
Career Highlights
Olson began his acting journey at the young age of 12 and later studied speech at Northwestern University. He became a notable stage actor, making his Broadway debut in the late 1950s and starring in various productions. His film and television career included prominent roles in both critically acclaimed projects and popular series, although he never achieved the desired level of stardom.
Death and Legacy
James Olson passed away on April 17, 2022, in Malibu, California. His contributions to theater, film, and television are remembered by fans and colleagues alike, particularly for the powerful presence and depth he brought to his characters. Olson’s unique voice and towering stature made him a memorable figure in the acting community.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Andromeda Strain | 1971-03-12 | Dr. Mark Hall |
| Ragtime | 1981-11-20 | Father |
| Moon Zero Two | 1969-10-20 | Capt. William H. Kemp |
| Rachel, Rachel | 1968-08-26 | Nick Kazlik |
| Incident on a Dark Street | 1973-01-13 | Joe Dubbs |
| Crescendo | 1970-06-07 | Georges Ryman / Jacques Ryman |
| The Groundstar Conspiracy | 1972-06-12 | Senator Stanton |
| The Sharkfighters | 1956-11-01 | Ens. Harold Duncan |
| Cave-In! | 1983-06-19 | Tom Arlen |
| Someone I Touched | 1975-02-26 | Sam Hyatt |