Richard Anderson was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Six Million Dollar Man,” “Perry Mason,” and “Forbidden Planet.” He had a successful career in both film and television spanning several decades.
Personal and Family Life
Richard Anderson was born on August 8, 1926, in Long Branch, New Jersey. He was married twice; first to Carol Lee Ladd from 1955 to 1956 and then to Katharine Thalberg from 1961 until their divorce in 1973. He had three children: Ashley, Brooke, and Deva Anderson. He balanced his acting career with family life throughout his long career.
Career Highlights
Anderson began his acting career in high school plays and completed a stint in the Army before transitioning into acting full-time. He gained fame through roles in classic films such as “Forbidden Planet” and “Paths of Glory” and became a well-known face on television, particularly for his recurring role as Oscar Goldman in “The Six Million Dollar Man.” He was also featured in popular series like “Perry Mason” and “The Fugitive,” earning critical praise for his performances.
Death and Legacy
Richard Anderson passed away on August 31, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California, from natural causes. He is remembered for his distinguished contributions to the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy that includes memorable characters and numerous accolades. His career influenced many actors, and his roles continue to be celebrated in classic film and television circles.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Forbidden Planet | 1956-03-23 | Chief Engineer Quinn |
| Paths of Glory | 1957-10-25 | Maj. Saint-Auban |
| The Player | 1992-04-03 | Richard Anderson |
| Seconds | 1966-10-05 | Dr. Innes |
| Tora! Tora! Tora! | 1970-01-26 | Captain John B. Earle |
| The Six Million Dollar Man | 1974 | Oscar Goldman |
| Perry Mason | 1957 | Lt. Drum |
| The Fugitive | 1963 | Richard Kimble’s brother-in-law |