Earl Holliman, a beloved actor who epitomized Hollywood’s golden age, passed away at 96 in hospice care at his home in Studio City, California. Holliman’s partner, Craig Curtis, confirmed his death to the *Hollywood Reporter* on Tuesday.
With a career spanning nearly five decades, Holliman was more than just a familiar face on screen—he was a testament to American grit and talent. Born and raised in the small town of Oil City, Louisiana, Holliman’s rise to stardom was anything but conventional. After a brief stint in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he found himself enamored with Hollywood, frequenting the famous Hollywood Canteen, where he rubbed elbows with the stars of the day.
Holliman’s first break came with a single line in the 1953 comedy *Scared Stiff,* starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. But his big moment arrived three years later when he starred alongside Burt Lancaster and Katharine Hepburn in *The Rainmaker.* Beating out none other than Elvis Presley for the role, Holliman delivered a performance that earned him a Golden Globe Award.
From there, his career soared. He graced iconic films like *Forbidden Planet,* *Giant,* and *Broken Lance,* showcasing a range that few could match. But it wasn’t just the big screen where Holliman made his mark. On television, he became a household name as Lt. Bill Crowley on the groundbreaking police drama *Police Woman* in the 1970s. Acting alongside Angie Dickinson, Holliman brought charm and wit to a series that pushed boundaries for its time.
“She’d get into trouble, and I’d run in and save her,” Holliman fondly recalled in a 2003 interview. Their dynamic chemistry, often enhanced by ad-libbed banter, kept audiences glued to their screens. The show also featured an impressive lineup of guest stars, including Mark Harmon, Joan Collins, and even Smokey Robinson, cementing its place in TV history.
Holliman’s talents didn’t stop at acting. A brief recording career with Capitol Records revealed his vocal abilities, and he remained a passionate advocate for animal rights throughout his life. As president of Actors and Others for Animals for 34 years, Holliman championed causes that gave back to the vulnerable, mirroring his values as a proud patriot and Hollywood legend.
Despite his fame, Holliman’s journey was marked by humility and determination. Before stepping into the spotlight, he worked at North American Aviation and studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse. His success was a blend of raw talent and sheer perseverance—a true American dream story.
Holliman’s legacy extends beyond his accolades. In 1977, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but it was his quiet dedication to causes like Toys for Tots and his timeless contributions to cinema and television that will forever define him.
As Hollywood bids farewell to one of its golden stars, we’re reminded of an era when actors weren’t just entertainers—they were patriots, philanthropists, and icons of the American spirit. Rest in peace, Earl Holliman. You were one of the greats.
