An American actor born in Missouri, on August 26, 1909. He graduated from Dearborn High School and joined William Jewell College. He obtained a degree in political science. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for his television activity. He was married to Blanche Hammerer (1945-1981) and they had a daughter, who remained with him until his death. He spent most of his early artistic career working in western films for Republic, setting the ideal image of a cowboy, with ease. He was swinging between the roles of good and evil. He made his first film with MGM, Cairo (1942). His most important works include: The Time Tunnel (1966), Big Jake (1971), Dallas (1978-1982) and The Day Time Ended (1979). He served in the Coast Guard during World War II. He died while working on a series at the age of 71.