Stanley Fafara

Stanley Fafara was an American actor best known for his role as Whitey in the beloved television series “Leave It to Beaver.” Born on September 20, 1950, in San Francisco, California, he achieved fame at a young age but faced many personal struggles throughout his life.

Personal and Family Life

Stanley Fafara was born Stanley Albert Fafara and had a younger brother named Tiger Fafara. He briefly married Rosemary Oswald in 1975, but the couple eventually divorced and had one child together. Throughout his life, Stanley battled addiction but ultimately found recovery and reconnected with his daughter after many years apart.

Career Highlights

Beginning his career at a young age, Stanley was cast as Whitey Whitney in “Leave It to Beaver” after attending an open casting call in 1957. He was involved in the entertainment industry from the age of four, having already appeared in commercials and television westerns. Despite the fame from the sitcom, he struggled with substance abuse, which affected his career and personal life for decades.

Death and Legacy

Stanley Fafara passed away on September 20, 2003, in Portland, Oregon, due to complications from surgery related to a hernia. He had battled health issues, including hepatitis C that he contracted in his younger years. Remembered for his role in a classic television show, Stanley also left behind a legacy of recovery, helping others with their addictions before his untimely death.

Filmography

Title Role Year
Leave It to Beaver Whitey Whitney 1957–1963
The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm Hansel (uncredited) 1962
Window on Main Street Peewee 1961
Dennis the Menace Boy impersonating Dennis 1960
Man Without a Gun Boy (as ‘Tiger’ Fafara) 1959
Wanted: Dead or Alive Young Boy (uncredited) 1959
The Lost Missile Boy on Evacuation School Bus (uncredited) 1958
The Millionaire Boy William 1956–1958
Good Morning, Miss Dove Fred Makepeace – Age 6 (uncredited) 1955
Private Secretary N/A 1954