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 |