Beloved actor and animal enthusiast Dan Haggerty passed away at the age of 73 on Friday in Burbank, California, following a battle with spinal cancer. Haggerty was best known for his iconic portrayal in “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams,” where he captured hearts with his distinctive beard and his companion bear, Ben.
Prior to achieving fame, Haggerty worked as a Hollywood stuntman and animal handler. His breakthrough came when he was approached to star in a film about a woodsman and his bear, under the condition that he would play the lead role throughout the entire movie. The film, based on Charles Sellier Jr.’s novel, defied expectations, gross ing nearly $30 million against a modest budget of $165,000, and later spawned a successful television series adaptation.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” narrated the tale of a man unjustly accused of murder who finds solace among the wildlife in the wilderness. John Leonard of The New York Times praised the series for its heartwarming appeal. Haggerty’s portrayal earned him a People’s Choice Award in 1978, and he continued to pursue roles centered around wildlife throughout his career.
Born on November 19, 1942, in Los Angeles, Haggerty faced significant challenges in his early life following his parents’ separation. Despite a turbulent youth, he appeared in notable films like “Easy Rider” and lived on a Malibu ranch where he cared for rescued animals, also contributing as an animal trainer and stuntman for TV series such as “Tarzan.”
Despite encountering legal troubles and personal setbacks, Haggerty’s legacy as Grizzly Adams and his deep affinity for nature remain indelible. He is survived by his children Megan, Tracy, Dylan, Cody, and Don, leaving behind a lasting impact on his fans and the entertainment industry.