Richard Eastham was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The F.B.I., Perry Mason, and Falcon Crest.
Personal and Family Life
Born as Dickinson Swift Eastham on June 22, 1916, in Opelousas, Louisiana, he was a talented baritone who initially focused on a musical career. Richard married Betty Jean Van Allen in 1942, and they enjoyed a long marriage of 60 years until her passing in 2002. He served four years in the Army during World War II, where he was stationed in Paris for part of his service.
Career Highlights
Richard Eastham relocated to New York after the war to pursue an acting career, appearing in musical theater such as South Pacific and Call Me Madam. He transitioned from musical roles to film and television acting in the late 1950s, becoming known for his roles in various popular shows and films. Eastham’s memorable performances were characterized by his strong, masculine presence which suited both heroic and villainous characters.
Death and Legacy
Richard Eastham passed away at the age of 89 on July 10, 2005, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. He left behind a legacy as a versatile actor who made significant contributions to both theater and television throughout his career. His performances continue to be appreciated by fans of classic American film and television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Battle for the Planet of the Apes | 1973-06-15 | Mutant |
| Man on Fire | 1957-08-22 | Bryan Seward |
| There’s No Business Like Show Business | 1954-12-16 | Lew Harris |
| Toby Tyler or Ten Weeks with a Circus | 1960-01-21 | Colonel Sam Castle |
| Not With My Wife, You Don’t! | 1966-11-02 | General Walters |
| The Missiles of October | 1974-12-18 | Gen. David M. Shoup |
| Tom Sawyer | 1973-03-15 | Doc Robinson |
| Murderers’ Row | 1966-12-20 | Dr. Norman Solaris |
| Conquest of the Earth | 1981-07-01 | General Cushing |
| The President’s Plane Is Missing | 1973-10-23 | Gen. Colton |
| That Darn Cat! | 1965-12-02 | Supervisor Newton |
| The F.B.I. | 1965-09-19 | Special Agent Howard Armstrong |
| The Streets of San Francisco | 1972-09-23 | |
| Perry Mason | 1957-09-21 | Deputy D.A. Parness |
| Wonder Woman | 1975-11-07 | General Phil Blankenship |
| The Waltons | 1972-09-14 | |
| Tombstone Territory | 1957-10-16 | Narrator |
| Falcon Crest | 1981-12-04 |