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Brian Keith
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Robert Alba Keith[1] (November 14, 1921 – June 24, 1997), known professionally as Brian Keith, was an American film, television, and stage actor who in his six-decade career gained recognition for his work in films such as the Disney family film The Parent Trap (1961); Johnny Shiloh (1963); the comedy The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming (1966); and the adventure saga The Wind and the Lion (1975), in which he portrayed President Theodore Roosevelt.
Key Information
On television, two of his best-known roles were those of bachelor-uncle-turned-reluctant-parent Bill Davis in the 1960s sitcom Family Affair, and a tough retired judge in the lighthearted 1980s crime drama Hardcastle and McCormick. He also starred in The Brian Keith Show, which aired on NBC from 1972 to 1974, where he portrayed a pediatrician who operated a free clinic on Oahu, and in the CBS comedy series Heartland.
Early life
[edit]Robert Alba Keith was born in Bayonne, New Jersey, on November 14, 1921, to actor Robert Keith and stage actress Helena Shipman, a native of Aberdeen, Washington. Some sources also list his full name as Brian Robert Keith.[2] He was Roman Catholic.[3] In 1941, he graduated from East Rockaway High School in East Rockaway, New York.
He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1942 completing his service in 1945. He served during World War II as a radioman/tail gunner in the rear cockpit of a two-man Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber in a U.S. Marine squadron. He was awarded a Combat Aircrew Insignia, Air Medal, Asiatic–Pacific Campaign Medal with three battle stars and World War II Victory Medal.[4]
Career
[edit]
Theatre
[edit]Keith made his Broadway debut in 1948 in the ensemble of Mister Roberts, which starred his father as "Doc". He was a guard in Darkness at Noon (1951) by Sidney Kingsley, and was in Out West of Eighth (1951), which had only a short run.
Television and films
[edit]Keith made his film debut at age 3 in Pied Piper Malone.[5] He began to guest star on shows such as Hands of Mystery, Shadow of the Cloak, and an adaptation of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas in Tales of Tomorrow. He was in Police Story, Suspense, Eye Witness, The United States Steel Hour, Robert Montgomery Presents, and The Motorola Television Hour.[6] Keith's feature film debut was in a Western for Paramount, Arrowhead (1953). He stayed at that studio for Alaska Seas (1954), replacing Van Heflin, and Jivaro (1954).[7]
Keith guest starred on Campbell Summer Soundstage, The Pepsi-Cola Playhouse, Lux Video Theatre, and The Mask and also played Mike Hammer in a television pilot directed by Blake Edwards, but the series was not picked up.
He went to Columbia for The Bamboo Prison (1954), The Violent Men (1955), Tight Spot (1955), and 5 Against the House (1955), the last two directed by Phil Karlson.[8] He was meant to support Joan Crawford in Queen Bee, but did not appear in the final film.[9]
He guest starred on The Elgin Hour, Mystery Is My Business, Jane Wyman Presents The Fireside Theatre, The Box Brothers, The Ford Television Theatre, Climax!, Wire Service and Studio 57.
In 1955, Keith starred in his own series, Crusader, as fictional journalist Matt Anders. He continued to appear in films for Columbia, such as Storm Center (1956) co-starring with Bette Davis and Nightfall (1956) with Aldo Ray.
In June 1956, he announced he had formed his own company, Michael Productions, and had optioned a story by Robert Blees called Cairo.[10]
Film stardom
[edit]Keith was second billed in Dino (1957) with Sal Mineo, and Run of the Arrow (1957) with Rod Steiger. He was top billed in Chicago Confidential (1957), but returned to supporting parts with Appointment with a Shadow (1957) Hell Canyon Outlaws (1957), and Fort Dobbs (1958). He announced he would make Alien Virus for his Michael Productions, but it was not made.[11] Keith was top billed in some low-budget action movies: Violent Road (1958), Desert Hell (1958), Sierra Baron (1958), and Villa!! (1958). The last two were shot back-to-back in Mexico.[12][13] He guest starred on Studio One in Hollywood, Rawhide, Laramie, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, and an episode of Zane Grey Theater, which was written and directed by Sam Peckinpah and later led to The Westerner.
The Westerner and Disney
[edit]Keith supported Paul Newman in The Young Philadelphians (1959), and had the lead in two productions for Disney, the TV show Elfego Baca: Move Along, Mustangers (1959) and the feature Ten Who Dared (1960). In 1960, he won acclaim for his starring role in Sam Peckinpah's extremely hard-bitten, adult, and short-lived series The Westerner (1960). The show aired for only 13 episodes. "Only four or five of those were any good", said Keith later. "But those four or five were as good as anything anybody has ever done."[14] Keith guest starred in: The Untouchables, The Americans, Frontier Circus, Alcoa Premiere, Outlaws, Follow the Sun, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents again. Keith made a second film for Disney, playing the father of twins in the film The Parent Trap (1961), costarring Hayley Mills and Maureen O'Hara, which was a huge hit. Critical acclaim was given to The Deadly Companions (1961), a Western with O'Hara, which marked Peckinpah's feature directorial debut. Keith did two more films for Disney, Moon Pilot (1962) and Savage Sam (1963).
He guest starred on Target: The Corruptors, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, The Virginian, Sam Benedict, Dr. Kildare, The Fugitive, Wagon Train, 77 Sunset Strip, Kraft Suspense Theatre, The Great Adventure, and Profiles in Courage. Keith did a Western for Universal, The Raiders (1963), then returned to Disney for Johnny Shiloh (1963), Bristle Face (1964), The Tenderfoot (1964), A Tiger Walks (1964), and Those Calloways (1965).
He went to Fox for The Pleasure Seekers (1964) and had support roles in The Hallelujah Trail (1965), The Rare Breed (1966) (again with O'Hara), and Nevada Smith (1966), co-starring with Steve McQueen as traveling gunsmith Jonas Cord. Keith did the comedies The Russians Are Coming! The Russians Are Coming! (1966) for Norman Jewison, Way... Way Out (1966) with Jerry Lewis, and With Six You Get Eggroll (1968) with Doris Day.
Family Affair
[edit]
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In 1966, Keith landed the role of Uncle Bill Davis on CBS's popular television situation comedy Family Affair. This role earned him three Emmy Award nominations for Best Actor in a Comedy Series.[15] The show made him a household name. It was in the vein of successful 1960s and 1970s sitcoms that dealt with widowhood and/or many single-parent issues, such as The Andy Griffith Show, My Three Sons, The Beverly Hillbillies, Petticoat Junction, One Day at a Time, Here's Lucy, Julia, The Courtship of Eddie's Father, The Brady Bunch, The Partridge Family, and Sanford and Son. During its first season in 1966, Family Affair was an immediate hit, ranking number 15 in the Nielsen ratings.[16] By the end of its fifth season, in 1971, Family Affair still had high ratings, but was cancelled after 138 episodes.
Kathy Garver, who co-starred as Keith's teenaged niece, Cissy, on Family Affair, indicated that Keith said: "I'm a cultural Irishman, don't you know, I'm a cultural Irishman." Garver explained: "But he went through many manifestations and changes of character, during the five years that we shot. At first, he was up and then his second year, he was going through a divorce, and then, the third year, he met somebody else, and he became more anecdotal and told stories that he loved kids, and he was very outspoken about those that he did not like. So, he was a very interesting character and it was Brian and Sebastian Cabot [who played Mr. French] had such a different style of acting and that's another reason I think that Family Affair was so popular and stayed as it did. Both excellent actors, both coming from very different methods and styles of acting with Sebastian was more from the classical style and he would take home his script and he would dutifully look at every single word and have it to perfection, and then Brian would come in and say, 'Oh what do we have today? Let me see the scene, uh-huh, uh-huh, let's go!' So he was very improvisational, motion of the moment. And those two different styles really worked out for each of them very well."[17]
During the series' run Keith appeared in Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967) with Marlon Brando, With Six You Get Eggroll (1968) with Doris Day, Krakatoa: East of Java (1968) for Cinerama, and Gaily, Gaily (1969) for Norman Jewison. He had leading roles in Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came? (1970) for Cinerama and The McKenzie Break (1970).[18] In 1970, Keith moved to Hawaii.[14] Keith made Scandalous John (1971) for Disney, Something Big (1972) with Dean Martin and director Andrew McLaglen, and the TV movie Second Chance (1972).[19]
The Brian Keith Show, The Zoo Gang, Archer
[edit]Keith went on to star as pediatrician Dr. Sean Jamison in the NBC sitcom The Brian Keith Show (entitled The Little People during its first season). The series was cancelled in 1974 after two seasons. "The show ended because it was bad, not because of Hawaii," said Keith.[14]
Keith also starred in the role of Steven "The Fox" Halliday in the six-part television miniseries, The Zoo Gang (1974), about a group of former underground French Resistance fighters from World War II. The show also starred Sir John Mills, Lilli Palmer, and Barry Morse, and featured a theme by Paul McCartney.[14] Keith was third billed in The Yakuza (1974) starring Robert Mitchum, and in The Wind and the Lion (1975) starring Sean Connery, Keith played President Theodore Roosevelt for writer-director John Milius. He starred in the TV series Archer (1975) as Lew Archer, replacing Peter Graves who'd starred in the pilot, but it was cancelled after six episodes and has never been rerun in the United States (Jerry Goldsmith's score for the first episode of the series was released in 2018 by Lalaland Records).[14] Keith did some Westerns, The Quest (1976) pilot, and Joe Panther (1976), and the TV movie The Loneliest Runner (1976). He had a supporting role in Nickelodeon (1976) and did the TV movies In the Matter of Karen Ann Quinlan (1977) and The Court-Martial of George Armstrong Custer (1977). He was in How the West Was Won (1978), Hooper (1978) with Burt Reynolds, Centennial (1979), and The Chisholms (1979). In 1992, he starred in the unsold, ABC half-hour pilot The Streets of Beverly Hills.
Keith spoke fluent Russian, which led to his casting as a Russian in two roles: as a Soviet scientist in the film Meteor (1979) with Natalie Wood (who also spoke fluent Russian and played his translator), and as the Soviet premier in the NBC miniseries World War III (1982) with Rock Hudson. He replaced Barnard Hughes on Broadway in Da and was on The Seekers (1979), Power (1980), The Silent Lovers (1980), The Mountain Men (1980) with Charlton Heston, and Charlie Chan and the Curse of the Dragon Queen (1981). Of the latter he joked, "I only did the picture because it had a long title, and I seem to specialize in those."[6] He had support roles in Sharky's Machine (1981) with Burt Reynolds and Cry for the Strangers (1982).
Hardcastle and McCormick, Pursuit of Happiness, and Heartland
[edit]Keith once again returned to series television in 1983, with Hardcastle and McCormick, in the role of a cranky retired judge named Milton C. Hardcastle. Daniel Hugh Kelly co-starred as ex-con Mark McCormick in this ABC crime drama with elements of comedy. The chemistry of Keith and Kelly was a hit, and the series lasted three years until its cancellation in 1986.[2] During the series run, Keith was in Murder, She Wrote and The B.R.A.T. Patrol (1986). Keith starred in The Alamo: Thirteen Days to Glory (1987) (as Davy Crockett), and Death Before Dishonor, then did another TV series Pursuit of Happiness (1987–88), which ran 10 episodes. He was in After the Rain (1988), Young Guns (1988), and Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson (1989). He starred in another short-lived series Heartland (1989). He had roles in Welcome Home (1989), and Lady in the Corner (1989).
Later career
[edit]Keith made a guest appearance in the Evening Shade season-one episode "Chip Off The Old Brick" (1991), as the loud-mouthed father of Herman Stiles (played by actor Michael Jeter). He reprised his character from The Westerner in The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw (1991) (which featured numerous actors from 1950s TV series playing their original roles in brief cameos), had the lead in Walter & Emily (1991), a short-lived sitcom, and The Streets of Beverly Hills (1992), a pilot. Brian Keith appeared on a two-part episode of Major Dad, season four "The People's Choice" as the Major's (Gerald McRaney) domineering father who pays a visit to the family. The episode aired on September 25, 1992. Keith performed the role of Mullibok on the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine season-one episode entitled "Progress" (1993), in which an elderly farmer resists forcible relocation by Bajoran authorities.
Among his last performances were The Secrets of Lake Success; Wind Dancer; The Commish; Under a Killing Moon (1994); The Return of Hunter: Everyone Walks in L.A. (1995); The Monroes; Favorite Deadly Sins (1995); Entertaining Angels: The Dorothy Day Story (1996); Walker, Texas Ranger; Touched by an Angel; and The Second Civil War (1997). Keith guest-starred in an episode of the TV series The Marshal titled "The Bounty Hunter" (1995) in which he played then Wichita, Kansas, Police Chief Rick Stone under the stage name of Chief Skoblow. The Wichita Police Department cooperated with the Canadian TV production company by providing details of Chief Stone's actual police dress uniform for Keith to wear during the episode. Keith also provided the voice of Ben Parker on Spider-Man: The Animated Series.
In his last film, Keith played President William McKinley in Rough Riders (1997). Director John Milius dedicated the film to "Brian Keith, Actor, Marine, Raconteur."[20]
His last film appearance was as Roddy Thompson in the Lorenzo Doumani film Follow Your Heart, which was filmed before his death but was not released until 1998.[21]
Personal life and death
[edit]Keith married three times. He was married to Frances Helm from 1948 to 1954, Judy Landon from 1954 to 1969, and Victoria Young-Keith from 1970 until his death. He had seven children, one of whom committed suicide six weeks prior to his death.[22]
On June 24, 1997, at the age of 75, Keith died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound just six weeks after his daughter Daisy shot herself on April 17, 1997[23] at his home in Malibu, California.[24] He suffered from emphysema and lung cancer during the latter part of his life, despite having quit smoking ten years earlier. He reportedly also struggled with financial problems and suffered from depression throughout his final days.[25]
Keith's friend Maureen O'Hara did not believe Keith died as a result of suicide. She stated that he had a large gun collection and he might have been cleaning the gun, or looking at it, when it went off accidentally. She had just visited him and said he was in good spirits and would not have committed suicide given his Catholic beliefs.[26]
Keith's private funeral was attended by Family Affair co-stars Kathy Garver and Johnny Whitaker, and Hardcastle and McCormick co-star Daniel Hugh Kelly. His ashes were interred next to those of his daughter Daisy at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles.[27]
Legacy
[edit]On June 26, 2008, Brian Keith received a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.[28]
Filmography
[edit]Film
[edit]- Pied Piper Malone (1924) as Little Boy
- Arrowhead (1953) as Captain Bill North
- Alaska Seas (1954) as Jim Kimmerly
- Jivaro (1954) as Tony
- The Bamboo Prison (1954) as Corporal Brady
- The Violent Men (1955) as Cole Wilkison
- Tight Spot (1955) as Vince Striker
- 5 Against the House (1955) as Brick
- Storm Center (1956) as Paul Duncan
- Nightfall (1956) as John
- Run of the Arrow (1957) as Captain Clark
- Dino (1957) as Larry Sheridan
- Chicago Confidential (1957) as District Attorney Jim Fremont
- Appointment with a Shadow (1957) as Lieutenant Spencer
- Hell Canyon Outlaws (1957) as Happy Waters
- Fort Dobbs (1958) as Clett
- Violent Road (1958) as Mitch Barton
- Desert Hell (1958) as Captain Robert Edwards
- Sierra Baron (1958) as Jack McCracken
- Villa!! (1958) as Bill Harmon
- The Young Philadelphians (1959) as Mike Flanagan
- Ten Who Dared (1960) as William 'Bill' Dunn
- The Deadly Companions (1961) as Yellowleg
- The Parent Trap (1961) as Mitch Evers
- Moon Pilot (1962) as Major General John M. Vanneman
- Savage Sam (1963) as Uncle Beck Coates
- The Raiders (1963) as John G. McElroy / Narrator
- A Tiger Walks (1964) as Sheriff Pete Williams
- The Pleasure Seekers (1964) as Paul Barton
- Those Calloways (1965) as Cam Calloway
- The Hallelujah Trail (1965) as Frank Wallingham
- The Rare Breed (1966) as Bowen
- Nevada Smith (1966) as Jonas Cord
- The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming (1966) as Police Chief Link Mattocks
- Way...Way Out (1966) as General 'Howling Bull' Hallenby
- Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967) as Lieutenant Colonel Morris Langdon
- With Six You Get Eggroll (1968) as Jake Iverson
- Krakatoa, East of Java (1969) as Connerly
- Gaily, Gaily (1969) as Francis Sullivan
- Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came? (1970) as Officer Michael M. Nace
- The McKenzie Break (1970) as Captain Jack Connor
- Scandalous John (1971) as John McCanless
- Something Big (1971) as Colonel Morgan
- The Yakuza (1975) as George Tanner
- The Wind and the Lion (1975) as President Theodore Roosevelt
- Nickelodeon (1976) as H.H. Cobb
- Hooper (1978) as Jocko
- Meteor (1979) as Dr. Dubov
- The Mountain Men (1980) as Henry Frapp
- Charlie Chan and the Curse of the Dragon Queen (1981) as Police Chief
- Sharky's Machine (1981) as Papa
- Death Before Dishonor (1987) as Colonel Halloran
- After the Rain (1988) as Byron Monroe
- Young Guns (1988) as Buckshot Roberts
- Welcome Home (1989) as Harry Robins
- Entertaining Angels: The Dorothy Day Story (1996) as Cardinal
- The Second Civil War (1997) as Major General Charles Buford
- Walking Thunder (1997) as Narrator (voice)
- Rough Riders (1997) as President William McKinley
Television
[edit]- Suspense (1952) (CBS) (7 episodes)
- (Season 4 Episode 24: "Night Drive") as Bob
- (Season 4 Episode 26: "Four Days to Kill") as Johnny
- (Season 4 Episode 34: "The Corsage") as Lieutenant Jim Connor
- (Season 4 Episode 36: "The Debt") as Idaho
- (Season 4 Episode 41: "Fifty Beautiful Girls")
- (Season 4 Episode 44: "Death Cargo")
- (Season 4 Episode 51: "Set-Up for Death") as Kip Caley (starring John Marley)[29]
- Police Story (1952) (CBS) (Season 1 Episode 16: "The California Case") (credited as Robert Keith, Jr.)
- Tales of Tomorrow (1952) (3 episodes)
- (Season 1 Episode 17: "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea: The Chase: Part 1")
- (Season 1 Episode 18: "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea: The Escape: Part 2")
- (Season 1 Episode 39: "Appointment on Mars") as Jack (credited as Robert Keith, Jr.)
- Crusader (1955–56) (CBS) (52 episodes in title role) as Matt Anders
- Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1959-1962) (4 episodes)
- (Season 4 Episode 31: "Your Witness") (1959) as Arnold Shawn
- (Season 5 Episode 5: "No Pain") (1959) as Dave Rainey
- (Season 5 Episode 34: "Cell 227") (1960) as Herbert 'Herbie' Morrison
- (Season 7 Episode 20: "The Test") (1962) as Vernon Wedge
- Disney anthology television series (1959-1986) (10 episodes)
- (Season 6 Episode 7: "Elfego Baca: Move Along, Mustangers") (for Walt Disney Presents) (1959) as Shadrak O'Reilly
- (Season 6 Episode 8: "Elfego Baca: Mustang Man, Mustang Maid") (for Walt Disney Presents) (1959) as Shadrak O'Reilly
- (Season 9 Episode 16: "Johnny Shiloh: Part 1") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1963) as Sergeant Gabe Trotter
- (Season 9 Episode 17: "Johnny Shiloh: Part 2") for (Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1963) as Sergeant Gabe Trotter
- (Season 10 Episode 15: "Bristle Face: Part 1") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1964) as Lue Swank
- (Season 10 Episode 16: "Bristle Face: Part 2") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1964) as Lue Swank
- (Season 11 Episode 5: "The Tenderfoot: Part 1") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1964) as Mose Carson
- (Season 11 Episode 6: "The Tenderfoot: Part 2") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1964) as Mose Carson
- (Season 11 Episode 7: "The Tenderfoot: Part 3") (for Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color) (1964) as Mose Carson
- (Season 31 Episode 4: "The B.R.A.T. Patrol") (for The Disney Sunday Movie) (1986) (ABC) as General Newmeyer
- The Westerner (1960) (NBC) (13 episodes) as Dave Blassingame
- The Untouchables (1961) (Season 2 Episode 16: "The Jamaica Ginger Story") as Jim Martinson
- Outlaws (1961–62) (NBC) (2 episodes)
- (Season 2 Episode 3: "My Friend, the Horse Thief") (1961) as Jim Whipple
- (Season 2 Episode 14: "The Bitter Swede") (1962) as Sven Johannsen
- The Alfred Hitchcock Hour (1962) (CBS) (Season 1 Episode 3: "Night of the Owl") as James 'Jim' Mallory, District Ranger
- Target: The Corruptors! (1962) (ABC) (2 episodes) as George Vaclavic
- (Season 1 Episode 32: "The Organizers: Part 1")
- (Season 1 Episode 33: "The Organizers: Part 2")
- Sam Benedict (NBC) (1963) (Season 1 Episode 20: "Run Softly, Oh Softly") as Mitchison Dawit
- The Virginian (1963) (Season 1 Episode 15: "Duel at Shiloh") as Johnny Wade
- Wagon Train (1963) (2 episodes)
- (Season 6 Episode 28: "The Tom Tuesday Story") as Tom Tuesday
- (Season 7 Episode 5: "The Robert Harrison Clarke Story") as First Sergeant Gault
- The Fugitive (1963) (Season 1 Episode 1 (Pilot): "Fear in a Desert City") as Edward Welles
- Kraft Suspense Theatre (1964) (NBC) (Season 1 Episode 19: "A Cause of Anger") as Andy Bastian
- Password (1966) (CBS) as Himself, Game Show Contestant / Celebrity Guest Star
- Family Affair (1966–71) (CBS) (138 episodes) as Uncle Bill Davis
- The Bull of the West (1972) (TV movie) as Johnny Wade (archive footage)
- The Brian Keith Show (1972–74) (NBC) (47 episodes; entitled The Little People in 1972–73) as Dr. Sean Jamison
- The Zoo Gang (1974) (ITV) (all 6 episodes) as Steven 'The Fox' Halliday
- Archer (1975) (NBC) (all 6 episodes) as Lew Archer
- The Loneliest Runner (1976) (NBC) (TV movie) as Arnold Curtis
- In the Matter of Karen Ann Quinlan (1977) (TV movie) as Joe Quinlan
- How the West Was Won (originally titled The Macahans) (1978) (ABC) (3 episodes) as General Stonecipher
- (Season 2 Episode 1: "Buffalo Story")
- (Season 2 Episode 2: "Mormon Story")
- (Season 2 Episode 3: "Interlude")
- Centennial (1978–79) (NBC) (12 episodes) as Sheriff Axel Dumire
- The Seekers (1979) (2 episodes: Season 1 Episode 1 and Season 1 Episode 2) as Elijah Weatherby
- The Chisholms (1979) (CBS) (Season 1 Episode 4: "Chapter IV") as Andrew Blake
- World War III (miniseries) (1982) (2 episodes: Season 1 Episode 1: "Part I" and Season 1 Episode 2: "Part II") as Soviet General Secretary Gorny
- Cry for the Strangers (1982) (TV movie) as Chief Whalen
- Hardcastle and McCormick (1983–86) (ABC) (67 episodes) as Judge Milton C. Hardcastle
- Murder, She Wrote (1984) (CBS) (Season 1 Pilot Episode: "The Murder of Sherlock Holmes") as Caleb McCallum
- Pursuit of Happiness (1987-1988) (ABC) (all 10 episodes) as Professor Roland G. Duncan
- Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson (1989) (CBS) (TV movie) as Frank Wellman Sr.
- Heartland (1989) (CBS) (TV movie) as B.L. McCutcheon
- The Young Riders (1990) (ABC) (Season 2 Episode 10: "Star Light, Star Bright") as Cyrus Happy
- Evening Shade (1991) (CBS) (Season 1 Episode 15: "Chip Off the Old Brick") as Brick Stiles
- Walter & Emily (1991–92) (NBC) (all 13 episodes) as Walter Collins
- The Streets of Beverly Hills (1992) (ABC) (TV movie) as Charlie Street
- Major Dad (1992) (CBS) (2 episodes) as Jake MacGillis
- (Season 4 Episode 1: "The People's Choice: Part 1")
- (Season 4 Episode 2: "The People's Choice: Part 2")
- Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993) (syndicated) (Season 1 Episode 15: "Progress" as Mullibok
- The Commish (1994) (ABC) (Season 3 Episode 22: "The Iceman Cometh") as Phil 'Iceman' Greene / Lou Parslow
- The Return of Hunter: Everyone walks in LA (1995) (TV movie) as Pete Morgan
- Spider-Man: The Animated Series (1995-1998) (3 episodes) as Uncle Ben (voice)
- (Season 1 Episode 5: "The Menace of Mysterio") (1995)
- (Season 2 Episode 4: "Neogenic Nightmare Chapter 4: The Mutant Agenda") (1995)
- (Season 5 Episode 13: "Spider Wars, Chapter 2: Farewell Spider-Man") (1998)
- Cybill (1996) (CBS) (Season 2 Episode 16: "Who's Who for What's His Name?") as Arthur Minnow
- Pacific Blue (1996) (USA) (Season 1 Episode 2: "First Shoot") as Mac McNamara
- Touched by an Angel (1996) (CBS) (Season 3 Episode 8: "The Sky is Falling") as Leonard Pound
- Walker, Texas Ranger (1996) (CBS) (Season 5 Episode 3: "Ghost Rider") as Del Forman
- Duckman (1997) (USA) (Season 4 Episode 18: "Kidney, Popsicle, and Nuts") as Duckman's Father (voice)
Stage
[edit]- Heyday (1946)
- Mr. Roberts as First Mate (c. 1950 as Robert Keith, Jr.) N.B. Robert Keith, Sr. was the Doctor in it.
- Darkness at Noon (1951)
- Da (1978)
Video games
[edit]- Under a Killing Moon (1994) as The Colonel
References
[edit]- ^ Keith, Victoria Y. (2014). "About Us". BrianKeith.com. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ a b Van Gelder, Lawrence (June 25, 1997). "Brian Keith, Hardy Actor, 75; Played Dads and Desperadoes". The New York Times. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ Hays, Matthew. "It's a Family Affair". Montreal Mirror. Archived from the original on June 30, 2012. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
I was surprised at Brian, who was Catholic, ...
- ^ p. 30 Naval Aviation News Nov-Dec 1988 Vol 71 No 1
- ^ Bowles, Jennifer. "Brian Keith, 'Family Affair' star, dead of apparent suicide". New Bedford Standard-Times. Retrieved May 31, 2024.
- ^ a b Vosburgh, Dick (June 26, 1997). "Obituary: Brian Keith". The Independent. p. 18.
- ^ THOMAS M. PRYOR (June 27, 1953). "DISNEY IS TESTING FOX' CINEMASCOPE: ' Pleased' With Film Process, but Isn't Sure He Will Use It on Dog Cartoon Feature". THE NEW YORK TIMES. p. 7.
- ^ Hopper, Hedda (October 14, 1954). "Brian Keith Set for 'Five Against House'". Los Angeles Times. p. A13.
- ^ Hopper, Hedda (February 5, 1955). "Brian Keith to Star With Joan Crawford". Los Angeles Times. p. 14.
- ^ Schallert, Edwin (June 4, 1956). "Drama: John Wayne Revives Batjac; Heston to Tour Straw Hat Show Circuit". Los Angeles Times. p. A9.
- ^ Schallert, Edwin (August 5, 1957). "Modern 'Sergeant York' Type Aimed at Sinatra; Rome Fashion Fete Due". Los Angeles Times. p. C11.
- ^ Dexter, Maury (2012). Highway to Hollywood (PDF). p. 92.
- ^ THOMAS M PRYOR (November 19, 1957). "REGAL TO START TEN FILMS SOON". New York Times.
- ^ a b c d e Smith, Cecil (January 26, 1975). "Brian Keith's playing Lew Archer--but with Hawaii on his mind". Los Angeles Times. p. q2.
- ^ "Brian Keith Biography". TV Guide. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ Mavis, Paul (December 1, 2007). "Family Affair-Season Four". DVD Talk. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ "OSB Episode 120". On Screen & Beyond. July 11, 2010. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ Martin, Betty (October 18, 1968). "Break' Role for Keith". Los Angeles Times. p. f18.
- ^ Martin, Betty (February 19, 1971). "MOVIE CALL SHEET: 'big' Role for Carol White". Los Angeles Times. p. i9.
- ^ "Brian Keith: Inducted to the Walk of Fame on June 26, 2008, with 1 star". Hollywood Walk of Fame. June 26, 2008. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ IMDb. "Follow Your Heart". Retrieved October 1, 2025.
- ^ Richmond, Ray (June 25, 1997). "Brian Keith, 75, dead in apparent suicide". Variety. Retrieved May 31, 2024.
- ^ Simon, Stephanie (June 25, 1997). "Actor Brian Keith Found Dead in Apparent Suicide". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ "Actor Brian Keith dies in apparent suicide". AP NEWS. Retrieved March 17, 2022.
- ^ Simon, Stephanie (June 25, 1997). "Brian Keith – Hollywood Star Walk". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ "Maureen O'Hara Discusses Her Life in Film". CNN Transcripts. CNN. October 28, 2000. Retrieved May 26, 2017.
- ^ "Brian Keith-Daisy Keith grave plaques". Seeing-Stars. Retrieved May 26, 2017.
- ^ "Brian Keith Honored At The Hollywood Walk of Fame". Getty Images. June 28, 2008. Archived from the original on September 24, 2015. Retrieved August 29, 2015.
- ^ "Set Up for Death". Suspense. 1949. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021.
External links
[edit]
Brian Keith
View on GrokipediaEarly Life
Childhood and Family Background
Brian Keith was born Robert Alba Keith on November 14, 1921, in Bayonne, New Jersey, the son of character actor Robert Keith and stage actress Helena Shipman.[5][6] Due to his parents' professions in the theater, Keith experienced a peripatetic childhood, frequently relocating as the family toured with various stage productions across the United States.[7][8] This lifestyle provided him with early immersion in the entertainment industry, including regular exposure to rehearsals, performances, and the behind-the-scenes environment of plays and early film sets.[7][8] His father's established career as a Broadway performer and screenwriter further shaped Keith's budding fascination with acting, offering a direct familial model of dedication to the craft amid the challenges of a touring life.[7][8] Keith received his formal education in the New York area, attending and graduating from East Rockaway High School in East Rockaway in 1941.[9]World War II Service
In 1942, at the age of 20, Brian Keith entered active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, following his prior enrollment in the Marine Corps Reserve in 1941.[4] His decision was influenced by his family's patriotic background during the lead-up to U.S. entry into World War II.[3] Keith served as a radioman and tail gunner in the rear cockpit of a two-man Douglas SBD Dauntless dive bomber, achieving the rank of corporal by the end of his service.[10] He participated in numerous combat missions in the South Pacific theater, including high-risk bombing runs against Japanese positions at Rabaul from bases on Bougainville and in the Solomon Islands, where his squadron faced intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighter intercepts.[4] One notable encounter involved his aircraft being crippled by ground fire and pursued by Japanese Zero fighters, compelling him to fend off attackers with a pistol and flare gun until allied support arrived.[10] Keith's service lasted from 1941 to 1945, culminating in an honorable discharge after Japan's surrender.[3] He later reflected on the profound hardships of these experiences, such as the constant peril of aerial combat and the physical toll of operations in harsh tropical conditions, which tested his endurance daily.[4] Keith credited the Marine Corps with instilling unbreakable discipline in him, forging a sense of responsibility and resilience that defined his character long after the war.[10]Initial Steps in Acting
Brian Keith made his acting debut as a child at the age of three in the 1924 silent film Pied Piper Malone, appearing alongside his father, actor Robert Keith. This early exposure came during a period when Keith's parents were actively involved in the theater world, providing him with an initial glimpse into the profession before he pursued other paths in his youth.[11] Following his service in World War II as a rear gunner in the Marine Corps, Keith was discharged in 1945 and resumed acting in 1947, taking advantage of the GI Bill to enroll in acting courses. His initial professional endeavors as an adult were modest, consisting of uncredited minor roles in films such as Boomerang! where he appeared as a man in the mob behind the courthouse, and Portrait of Jennie (1948) as an ice-skating extra. These small parts reflected the challenges of re-entering the industry after military service, where Keith faced financial difficulties and the need to rebuild his career from the ground up, often supplementing income through odd jobs while honing his craft. The discipline gained from his wartime experience helped him persevere during this transitional period.[12] In the late 1940s, Keith expanded into stage work, performing in summer stock theater productions around New York, which allowed him to gain practical experience and visibility in regional circuits. He also appeared in off-Broadway shows, building his resume through ensemble roles that demanded versatility in live performances. These opportunities were crucial for developing his stage presence amid the competitive post-war theater scene.[13] Keith's first significant Broadway appearance came in 1948 with the hit play Mister Roberts, where he joined the ensemble cast as a guard, performing alongside his father who played the role of Doc; the production ran for over three years and marked a pivotal step in establishing his professional credibility on the New York stage.Career
Stage Beginnings
Following his World War II service, Brian Keith built upon his initial acting experiences by immersing himself in the New York theater scene during the late 1940s and 1950s, focusing on summer stock and regional productions to refine his craft. These engagements, often in repertory companies across the Northeast, allowed him to perform a wide range of roles in classics and contemporary plays, developing his commanding stage presence and versatility as a character actor.[7] Keith made his Broadway debut in 1948 in the ensemble of the long-running comedy Mister Roberts, which starred his father, Robert Keith, as "Doc" and ran for over three years. His Broadway appearances in the early 1950s marked his entry into major theater, beginning with supporting roles that showcased his emerging rugged intensity. In Sidney Kingsley's Darkness at Noon (1951), he portrayed a guard in the adaptation of Arthur Koestler's novel, contributing to a production that ran for 492 performances and highlighted themes of Soviet oppression. Later that year, he took on the role of Lash Castro in Out West of Eighth, a short-lived drama that closed after three performances but provided Keith with experience in more prominent character parts amid a Western-tinged ensemble.[14] Critics and audiences noted Keith's early stage work for his burly physique and gruff vocal delivery, which lent authenticity to authoritative or tough characters, distinguishing him in an era dominated by more polished leading men. Reviews praised his physicality and straightforward delivery, though his roles remained secondary, emphasizing a persona that would later define his screen career. By the late 1950s, Keith's Broadway appearances had become infrequent as he transitioned toward film and television, building on his early stage foundation to pursue opportunities in Hollywood.Early Film and Television Appearances
Brian Keith made his film debut in an uncredited bit part as a man in the mob behind the courthouse in the 1947 crime drama Boomerang!, directed by Elia Kazan and starring Dana Andrews.[15] After his World War II service, Keith drew on his extensive stage experience to transition into screen acting, landing his first substantial film role in the 1953 Western Arrowhead, where he portrayed Captain Bill North, a cavalry officer aiding scout Charlton Heston's character in a conflict with Native Americans.[16][21] The following year, he appeared in the adventure drama Alaska Seas as Jim Kimmerly, a salmon fisherman entangled in a rivalry amid Alaskan waters, opposite Robert Ryan and Jan Sterling.[16] Throughout the mid-1950s, Keith built his on-screen presence through supporting roles in Westerns and dramas, including the brutal parole officer Vince Striker in the tense thriller Tight Spot (1955) and the convict Brick in the heist film 5 Against the House (1955). These parts, often portraying rugged antagonists or authoritative figures, solidified his reputation as a tough-guy character actor with a gruff voice and imposing physique.[21] Concurrently, he made guest appearances on anthology television series such as Suspense and Lux Video Theatre, performing in live broadcasts that highlighted his dramatic range in short-form stories.[21][5] A notable advancement came in 1956 with his prominent supporting role as ambitious councilman Paul Duncan in Storm Center, a Columbia Pictures drama about censorship and McCarthyism, co-starring Bette Davis as a librarian refusing to remove a subversive book. Billed second, Keith's portrayal of the opportunistic politician contributed to the film's exploration of ideological conflict, though critics like Bosley Crowther of The New York Times found the script preachy and Keith's performance overshadowed by Davis's commanding lead. The movie achieved modest box office returns, earning under $1 million domestically amid mixed reviews that praised its timeliness but faulted its didactic tone.[18][19]Rise to Film Stardom
Keith's breakthrough in film came with his portrayal of Mitch Evers, the widowed father in the Walt Disney production The Parent Trap (1961), opposite Hayley Mills as the scheming twin daughters.[20] This role marked a significant career boost, shifting his image from rugged supporting characters to more sympathetic leads in family-oriented stories.[21] Building on his earlier film appearances in the 1950s, the success of The Parent Trap elevated his profile within Hollywood, showcasing his ability to blend gruff charm with emotional depth.[8] Following this success, Keith secured leading roles in a series of films that further demonstrated his range. In The Pleasure Seekers (1964), he played Paul Barton, a doctor entangled in romantic escapades in Spain, highlighting his comedic timing alongside stars like Ann-Margret and Pamela Tiffin.[21] He also starred as police chief Link Mattocks in the satirical comedy The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming (1966), a Cold War farce that earned the film two Academy Award nominations and praised Keith's portrayal of an everyman hero navigating absurdity. These performances underscored his versatility across genres, from lighthearted romance to topical humor, and garnered critical consideration for his adept handling of both comedic and dramatic elements.[8] Overall, these early 1960s roles facilitated Keith's transition toward family-friendly stardom, positioning him as a reliable lead in wholesome, audience-pleasing productions that appealed to broader demographics.[20]Key Western and Disney Roles
In 1960, Brian Keith starred as the laconic drifter Dave Blassingame in the short-lived NBC Western television series The Westerner, created and directed by Sam Peckinpah.[22] The program followed Blassingame and his loyal dog Brown as they wandered the Texas-Mexico border, encountering moral dilemmas and frontier hardships in 13 episodes noted for their gritty realism and psychological depth, a departure from typical Western fare. Keith's portrayal was praised for conveying quiet authority and introspection.[20] Keith's rising film stardom in the early 1960s opened doors to prominent Disney collaborations, beginning with Those Calloways (1965), where he played the determined patriarch Cam Calloway, a New England trapper fighting to create a wildlife sanctuary for migrating geese amid local opposition.[23] Directed by Norman Tokar, the family drama was filmed on location in the Vermont woods to capture authentic seasonal challenges, with Keith's sympathetic performance anchoring the ensemble's wholesome struggles.[23] He followed this with The Rare Breed (1966), a Universal Western co-produced by Disney, in which Keith portrayed the rugged rancher Sam 'Bulldog' Burnett, aiding an Englishwoman (Maureen O'Hara) in breeding her rare bull with Texas longhorns; critics praised Keith for stealing scenes with his tangy charisma in this light-hearted frontier tale.[24] In Disney's animated The Jungle Book (1967), Keith provided the booming voice of Colonel Hathi, the pompous elephant leader of the Jungle Patrol, whose militaristic marches added comic relief to Rudyard Kipling's adaptation under Wolfgang Reitherman's direction. Keith continued showcasing his Western prowess in non-Disney films like Nevada Smith (1966), directed by Henry Hathaway, where he played Jonas Cord, a compassionate itinerant gunsmith who mentors a young revenge-seeker (Steve McQueen) in survival skills during a harsh desert trek.[25] Much of the production shot on rugged Eastern Sierra locations, including Buttermilk Valley, California, emphasizing the film's themes of maturation amid unforgiving terrain, with Keith's elder Cord offering grounded wisdom amid the violence.[26] The following year, in Andrew V. McLaglen's epic The Way West (1967), Keith embodied the legendary mountain man Jim Bridger, guiding a wagon train to Oregon while navigating internal conflicts; his authoritative presence as the trailblazing scout contributed to the film's portrayal of 1840s pioneer expansion.[27] Critics lauded Keith's versatility in these genres, particularly his knack for authoritative figures blending toughness with humanity— from the drifter Blassingame's moral resolve to Hathi's blustery command and Bridger's seasoned guidance—cementing his status as a reliable lead in 1960s Westerns and family-oriented adventures.[25][24] Behind the scenes, Keith's collaborations often involved demanding outdoor shoots; for The Westerner, episodes were filmed at Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park in California, where the harsh rocky terrain mirrored Blassingame's solitary ethos, and Keith bonded with co-star Spike (his on-screen dog) during long location days that enhanced their authentic chemistry.[28] In Nevada Smith, Keith worked closely with McQueen on marksmanship sequences in remote Sierra camps, sharing anecdotes of enduring dust storms and improvised stunts that honed the film's raw energy.[26]Breakthrough with Family Affair
In 1966, Brian Keith was cast as the lead character Bill Davis, a successful bachelor engineer living in a luxury New York apartment, in the CBS sitcom Family Affair, which premiered on September 12 and ran for five seasons until 1971.[29] The show's premise centered on Davis unexpectedly becoming the guardian of his late brother's three children—teenage niece Cissy (played by Kathy Garver), and young twins Buffy (Anissa Jones) and Jody (Johnny Whitaker)—with assistance from his British butler, Mr. French (Sebastian Cabot), as they navigated family life amid humorous challenges and heartwarming moments.[30] Keith's prior Disney roles, such as in The Parent Trap, had positioned him well for this family-oriented lead.[31] Family Affair quickly became a ratings powerhouse, consistently ranking in the Nielsen top 20 during its early seasons, including a tie for No. 14 in 1966-1967, and drawing an average of over 20 million viewers per episode at its peak, which contributed to its status as a cultural touchstone for 1960s family television.[32] The series resonated as a gentle portrayal of unconventional family bonds, influencing later sitcoms by blending sophistication with relatable parenting dilemmas in an era of shifting social norms.[33] Its enduring appeal lay in the show's emphasis on emotional growth and lighthearted problem-solving, making it a staple of American broadcast history with 138 episodes produced.[29] Keith's performance earned him consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 1967, 1968, and 1969, recognizing his nuanced depiction of a reluctant yet devoted uncle.[34] [35] [36] On set, Keith fostered warm dynamics with his young co-stars, particularly protective of Anissa Jones, whom he affectionately called "his girl," while building rapport with Johnny Whitaker from their prior film collaboration and maintaining a professional camaraderie with Sebastian Cabot's authoritative butler role.[37] To prepare for the role, Keith drew on his experience portraying authoritative yet approachable figures, requesting Whitaker's casting to ease on-screen chemistry, and adopted a performance style that balanced gruff humor with genuine affection, delivering lines with a natural, understated warmth that grounded the character's evolution from playboy to paternal figure.[38] [39]Mid-Career Television Series
Following the success of Family Affair, which established Brian Keith as a reliable lead in family-oriented programming, he transitioned into new television projects that diversified his comedic and dramatic range during the 1970s.[29] Keith headlined The Brian Keith Show (initially titled The Little People) on NBC from 1972 to 1974, portraying Dr. Sean Jamison, a widowed pediatrician operating a free clinic in Hawaii alongside his daughter, Dr. Anne Jamison, played by Shelley Fabares.[40] The series blended medical comedy with lighthearted family dynamics, featuring 47 episodes across two seasons filmed on location in Hawaii to emphasize its tropical setting and relaxed tone.[41] While it garnered positive notices for Keith's warm, paternal performance and the show's heartwarming appeal, it struggled to maintain strong viewership amid the evolving 1970s television landscape, where networks prioritized edgier, socially relevant sitcoms like All in the Family.[42] The program was canceled after its second season, reflecting broader industry shifts toward urban-themed content and away from traditional family comedies.[43] In 1974, Keith took on a dramatic role in the British ITC series The Zoo Gang, a six-episode adventure drama based on Paul Gallico's novel, where he played Stephen "The Fox" Halliday, an American antique dealer and former WWII resistance fighter reuniting with his old team to combat neo-Nazis.[44] Co-starring John Mills, Lilli Palmer, and Barry Morse, the series was praised for its high production values, international locations along the French Riviera, and ensemble chemistry, though its limited run prevented wider U.S. exposure.[45] Keith's portrayal added a rugged, charismatic edge to the group's espionage antics, earning acclaim for blending tension with camaraderie.[46] Keith's attempt to pivot to a detective genre lead came with Archer on NBC in 1975, where he starred as Lew Archer, a tough private investigator adapted from Ross Macdonald's novels, solving cases in a gritty California setting.[47] The crime drama aired for just six episodes from January to March, with Keith delivering a no-nonsense performance that reviewers noted as solid but mismatched to the cerebral literary character.[8] Despite spinning off from a well-received TV movie, The Underground Man, the series was swiftly canceled due to low ratings in a competitive midseason slot dominated by established procedurals.[48] This quick end highlighted the challenges of launching genre shows amid rising network demands for immediate audience hits. Later in the decade, Keith appeared in the acclaimed NBC miniseries Centennial (1978–1979), based on James A. Michener's novel, as Sheriff Axel Dumire, a complex lawman navigating Colorado's turbulent frontier history across multiple episodes.[49] His role in the 12-part epic, which chronicled generations of settlers, earned praise for capturing the character's moral ambiguity and authoritative presence, contributing to the production's strong reception as a landmark historical drama.[50] Keith also made guest appearances in various television specials and anthology formats during this period, showcasing his versatility beyond series commitments. Throughout the mid-1970s, Keith faced repeated series interruptions, with The Brian Keith Show and Archer both ending prematurely due to insufficient ratings in an era of network upheaval—the "rural purge" of 1971 had already reshaped programming toward bolder narratives, increasing competition and shortening runs for lighter fare.[43] These efforts, while not breakout successes, allowed Keith to explore dramatic depths and miniseries prestige, bridging his sitcom legacy with more varied roles amid television's push for relevance and innovation.[51]Later Roles and Voice Work
In the 1980s, Brian Keith took on the lead role of retired Judge Milton C. Hardcastle in the action-adventure series Hardcastle and McCormick, which ran for three seasons from 1983 to 1986 on ABC. In the show, Hardcastle recruits paroled race car driver Mark McCormick to help him track down criminals who evaded justice through legal technicalities, blending high-speed chases with vigilante themes.[52][53] Following this, Keith starred as Professor Roland G. Duncan in the short-lived sitcom Pursuit of Happiness in 1987-1988, portraying a widowed law professor navigating family life with his adult children in Brooklyn Heights. The series, which aired 10 episodes on ABC, emphasized generational clashes and urban family dynamics but was canceled after one season due to low ratings.[54][20] Keith continued with another family-oriented role as B.L. McCutcheon, a traditional Nebraska farmer, in the CBS sitcom Heartland in 1989. The show depicted McCutcheon relocating to California to live with his daughter's modern family, highlighting cultural adjustments and intergenerational humor across 10 episodes.[55][22] Transitioning into voice acting in the 1990s, Keith provided the voice of Uncle Ben Parker in Spider-Man: The Animated Series from 1994 to 1997, appearing in key episodes such as "The Menace of Mysterio" to deliver the character's moral guidance to Peter Parker. This role marked Keith's entry into animation, leveraging his distinctive gravelly voice for a beloved comic book figure.[56] Keith also made notable guest appearances on popular television shows during this period, including an episode of Murder, She Wrote in 1984 as Caleb McCallum, a suspect in the pilot storyline involving a book convention murder. Later, in 1996, he guest-starred on Walker, Texas Ranger in the episode "Ghost Rider" as Del Forman, a rancher connected to a decades-old crime investigation.[57][58] As he aged into his 70s, Keith adapted to more mature, supporting roles that reflected industry shifts toward ensemble casts and genre diversification, moving from lead action heroes to authoritative elders in animation and procedural dramas, maintaining his presence without the physical demands of earlier Westerns.[8][22]Personal Life
Marriages and Family
Brian Keith's first marriage was to actress Frances Helm on January 3, 1948, in Richmond, Virginia; the union ended in divorce in 1954 with no children.[59][60] His second marriage, to actress Judy Landon on June 23, 1954, lasted until their divorce on May 2, 1969, and produced a large family of five children.[7] The couple had two biological children: son Michael (1955–1963), who died in childhood, and daughter Mimi.[61] They also adopted three children: daughters Barbara (born 1961) and Betty (born 1962), and son Rory (born 1963).[60] Keith's third marriage was to Hawaiian actress Victoria Young (born Victoria Leialoha Young) on January 9, 1970, a partnership that continued until his death.[7][62] Together, they had two biological children: son Robert (born 1970) and daughter Daisy (born June 1969).[60] Daisy followed in her parents' footsteps as an actress, appearing alongside Keith in the 1989 television series Heartland.[63] Throughout his career, Keith balanced his demanding roles in film and television with family responsibilities, raising his seven children in the Hollywood milieu where show business was a constant presence.[61] Born into an acting family himself as the son of character actor Robert Keith and stage actress Helena Shipman, Keith integrated his professional life with home life, often drawing from paternal experiences in roles like Uncle Bill on Family Affair.[7]Interests and Philanthropy
Brian Keith maintained a lifestyle centered on outdoor pursuits and creative endeavors, reflecting his preference for a relaxed, active existence away from the spotlight. He resided in Malibu, California, where the coastal environment complemented his interests in sailing and horseback riding, activities he pursued as part of his personal hobbies.[64] Keith also enjoyed golfing, swimming, cooking, reading, and painting, often seeking solace in these pastimes to balance his demanding career.[63] Known for his down-to-earth public persona—likened to "the thinking man's John Wayne"—Keith projected an approachable, no-nonsense image that endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.[1] This authenticity extended to his involvement as a World War II veteran, though specific post-war engagements with veterans' organizations remain undocumented in available records.[4]Death
Circumstances of Death
On June 24, 1997, Brian Keith died at his home in Malibu, California, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head; he was 75 years old.[20] Family members discovered his body that morning and alerted authorities, who confirmed the wound was self-inflicted.[64] Keith had been battling emphysema and terminal lung cancer, which required brutal chemotherapy treatments and caused significant chronic pain in his final months.[20] Additionally, he faced a massive financial setback earlier that year, exacerbating his struggles.[20] Keith's death came about ten weeks after the suicide of his 27-year-old daughter, Daisy Keith, on April 16, 1997, an event that deeply affected him.[20] Daisy had shot herself in the head at her Hollywood apartment and died the following day at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, leaving no note.[65] Reports indicated Keith was distraught over her loss, compounded by his own deteriorating health.[65] The Los Angeles County coroner officially ruled Keith's death a suicide.[64] He left a note for his family expressing his love and stating, "Forgive me, but I don't want to live anymore. The pain is too bad. There's no point in trying to prolong this agony."[33]Immediate Aftermath
The death of Brian Keith was publicly announced on June 25, 1997, by Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies, who confirmed he had died the previous day from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his Malibu home.[64] Media coverage appeared immediately in major outlets, including the Los Angeles Times, Variety, and the Associated Press, highlighting Keith's long career, his recent diagnosis of lung cancer and emphysema, and the suicide of his daughter Daisy just weeks earlier.[20] These reports emphasized the tragic circumstances without speculation on motives beyond his health struggles.[65] A private funeral service was held on June 29, 1997, at Our Lady of Malibu Catholic Church, attended by family members and select co-stars from Family Affair, including Kathy Garver and Johnny Whitaker.[66] Keith's wife, actress Victoria Young, and other relatives kept the event intimate, focusing on personal reflection rather than public mourning.[20] His ashes were interred at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles, placed alongside those of his daughter Daisy.[6] Family members issued limited statements through authorities, describing Keith as a devoted and loving patriarch who had been deeply affected by personal losses, though they requested privacy in the wake of the tragedy.[64] Close associates echoed this, recalling his warm, paternal demeanor off-screen.[20] Keith's death had minimal short-term impact on his ongoing projects; he had recently completed his role as President William McKinley in the TNT miniseries Rough Riders, which premiered as scheduled on July 20, 1997.[20] Any pending voice recordings for commercials and animation, including contributions to Spider-Man: The Animated Series, were either finished or incorporated posthumously without significant delays.[63]Legacy
Awards and Honors
Brian Keith received three consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his portrayal of Uncle Bill Davis in the sitcom Family Affair. These included nominations for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Comedy Series in 1967, 1968, and 1969.[2] In recognition of his contributions to Western films and television, Keith was awarded the Golden Boot Award in 1991 by the Motion Picture & Television Fund, honoring actors with significant roles in the genre.[67] Posthumously, Keith was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the television category, dedicated on June 26, 2008, at 7021 Hollywood Boulevard. The ceremony acknowledged his extensive career spanning over five decades in film, television, and stage.[3]Cultural Influence and Recognition
Brian Keith's portrayal of Uncle Bill Davis in the sitcom Family Affair (1966–1971) cemented his status as an iconic father figure in 1960s and 1970s television, embodying a gruff yet affectionate guardian that influenced the archetype of the reluctant, working-class parent in family-oriented programming.[22] This role, which earned him three Emmy nominations, highlighted themes of makeshift family dynamics and paternal warmth, shaping tropes seen in later shows where single men navigate child-rearing with humor and heart.[22] Keith's performance, blending toughness with tenderness, resonated with audiences during an era of evolving family portrayals on screen, as noted in contemporary reviews praising his "down-to-earth" appeal.[8] In modern media, Keith's work has been referenced in retrospectives on classic television, including archival releases that sustain his visibility. The complete series of Family Affair was issued on DVD in 2008 by MPI Home Video, introducing his paternal roles to new generations via home video collections.[68] Similarly, his starring turn as drifter Dave Blasingame in the short-lived Western The Westerner (1960) received a collector's edition DVD release in 2017 from Shout! Factory, underscoring ongoing interest in his rugged characterizations.[69] These releases, along with tributes in entertainment histories, affirm his enduring presence in discussions of mid-century TV storytelling. Fan appreciation for Keith's Western roles persists through dedicated communities and cult followings, often celebrating his laconic cowboy personas at genre events and online forums. His contributions to character acting have been viewed in scholarly and critical contexts as pivotal to the evolution of versatile supporting performers, transitioning from radio and stage to screen with a distinctive gravelly voice and physicality that bridged tough-guy stereotypes and nuanced family men.[64] Post-1997 tributes include the 2008 Hollywood Walk of Fame star awarded for his television legacy, recognizing his broad impact on American entertainment.[22] In 2018, his widow Victoria Young Keith published the memoir Goodbye, Lambchops and Plumpudding, Brian Keith and Daisy Keith, a personal tribute reflecting on his life and career influences.[70] By 2025, these efforts, combined with streaming availability of his series, continue to highlight Keith's role in shaping character-driven narratives across genres.Filmography
Films
Brian Keith began his film career as a child in silent movies during the 1920s, appearing in uncredited bit parts before serving in World War II. After the war, he transitioned to adult roles in the late 1940s and gained prominence in the 1950s with supporting parts in Westerns and dramas, often portraying rugged, authoritative figures. Over his six-decade career, Keith appeared in more than 60 feature films, frequently in genres such as Westerns, comedies, and adventure stories, evolving from supporting roles to leads and character parts that showcased his gruff yet charismatic screen presence.[21]1920s and 1930s
Keith's earliest screen appearances were as a toddler in silent films, including Pied Piper Malone (1924) as a little boy and The Other Kind of Love (1924) in a bit role. No credited feature films are recorded for him in the 1930s, as he focused on radio and stage work during his youth.[71]1940s
- Knute Rockne, All American (1940) – Bit role as a youth[71]
- Portrait of Jennie (1948) – Teenage boy (uncredited)[71]
1950s
This decade marked Keith's breakthrough, with over 20 films emphasizing Westerns and noir thrillers where he often played tough lawmen or outlaws.- Arrowhead (1953) – Capt. North[21]
- Fourteen Hours (1951) – Cop with Towel (uncredited)[72]
- Alaska Seas (1954) – Jim Kimmerly[21]
- Jivaro (1954) – Tony[21]
- The Violent Men (1955) – Cole Wilkinson[21]
- Tight Spot (1955) – Vince Striker[21]
- 5 Against the House (1955) – Brick[21]
- The Bamboo Prison (1955) – Corp. Brady[21]
- Storm Center (1956) – Paul Duncan[21]
- Dino (1957) – Larry Sheridan[21]
- Chicago Confidential (1957) – Jim Fremont[21]
- Hell Canyon Outlaws (1957) – Happy Waters[21]
- Nightfall (1957) – John[21]
- Run of the Arrow (1957) – Capt. Clark[21]
- Desert Hell (1958) – Capt. Robert Edwards[21]
- Fort Dobbs (1958) – Clett[21]
- Violent Road (1958) – Mitch Barton[21]
- Appointment with a Shadow (1958) – Lt. "Spence" Spencer[21]
- Sierra Baron (1958) – Jack McCracken[21]
- Villa!! (1958) – Bill Harmon[21]
- The Young Philadelphians (1959) – Mike Flanagan[21]
1960s
Keith balanced family comedies with Disney productions and more intense dramas, often in lead or key supporting roles that highlighted his paternal authority.- Ten Who Dared (1960) – William Dunn[21]
- The Deadly Companions (1961) – Yellowleg[21]
- The Parent Trap (1961) – Mitch Evers[21]
- Moon Pilot (1962) – Maj. Gen. John Vanneman[21]
- Savage Sam (1963) – Uncle Beck Coates[21]
- The Raiders (1964) – John G. McElroy[21]
- A Tiger Walks (1964) – Sheriff Pete Williams[21]
- The Pleasure Seekers (1964) – Dr. Paul Barton[21]
- Those Calloways (1965) – Cam Calloway[21]
- The Hallelujah Trail (1965) – Frank Wallingham[21]
- The Rare Breed (1966) – Alexander Bowen[21]
- Nevada Smith (1966) – Jonas Cord[21]
- The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming! (1966) – Link Mattocks[21]
- Way... Way Out (1966) – General Hallenby[21]
- Reflections in a Golden Eye (1967) – Lieut. Col. Morris Langdon[21]
- With Six You Get Eggroll (1968) – Jake Iverson[21]
- Gaily, Gaily (1969) – Francis X. Sullivan[21]
- Krakatoa, East of Java (1969) – Connerly[21]
1970s
Keith took on more mature leads in adventure epics and comedies, often portraying historical or military figures with a blend of humor and gravitas.- Suppose They Gave a War and Nobody Came? (1970) – Nace[21]
- The McKenzie Break (1970) – Capt. Jack Connor[21]
- Something Big (1971) – Col. Morgan[21]
- Scandalous John (1971) – John McCanless[21]
- The Yakuza (1974) – George Tanner[21]
- The Wind and the Lion (1975) – President Theodore Roosevelt[21]
- Nickelodeon (1976) – H.H. Cobb[73]
- Joe Panther (1976) – Capt. Harper[21]
- Hooper (1978) – Jocko Doyle
- Meteor (1979) – Dr. Paul Bradley[21]
- Moonraker (1979) – Col. Scott[21]
1980s
In the 1980s, Keith appeared in fewer but memorable supporting roles in action and Western revivals, often as grizzled veterans.- The Mountain Men (1980) – Henry Frapp[21]
- Charlie Chan and the Curse of the Dragon Queen (1981) – Police Commissioner McTeague[74]
- Sharky's Machine (1981) – Papa[21]
- Death Before Dishonor (1987) – Col. Halloran[75]
- Welcome Home (1989) – Jake Robbins[76]
- Young Guns (1988) – Buckshot Roberts[75]
1990s
Keith's final feature films were sparse, reflecting his shift toward television, but included poignant character work.- Wind Dancer (1993) – Truman Richards[77]
- Follow Your Heart (1997) – Henry Mackenzie[75]