Earl Holliman, a renowned actor who defined midcentury entertainment, died on Monday in Los Angeles at 96, according to his niece Theresa Mullins Harris. Holliman, known for his diverse appearances in television and movies, personified the typical Hollywood success tale.
Holliman rose to popularity with notable performances in science fiction and Western films. In October 1959, he made television history by playing Mike Ferris in the first episode of The Twilight Zone, titled “Where Is Everybody?”
Holliman rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, appearing in hit shows such as Bonanza, The Fugitive, and Marcus Welby, M.D. His most well-known performance was as Lt. Bill Crowley in Police Woman, which peaked in the Primetime Top 15 during the 1974-75 season.
Beyond television, Holliman exhibited extraordinary versatility. In 1957, he received a Supporting Actor Golden Globe for The Rainmaker and was honored with a Hollywood Walk of Fame star. His early film appearances in classics such as Forbidden Planet and Giant cemented his reputation as a skilled actor.
Holliman’s artistic talents went beyond performing. He toured the country with the musical Oklahoma! and performed in stage performances of A Streetcar Named Desire and A Chorus Line. 1958, he signed a recording contract with Capitol Records, but his musical attempts did not chart nationally.
Despite never marrying, Holliman stayed close to his family. Born on September 11, 1928, he realized his childhood dream of becoming a movie star in unexpected ways. In 1997, he made his final appearance on television with the syndicated series NightMan.
Holliman’s death signals the end of an era for great television and film stars who influenced American entertainment in the mid-twentieth century. His diversified career and memorable performances will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
