John Agar

Biography

John G. Agar (January 31, 1921 – April 7, 2002) was a prominent American actor known for his performances in both classic films and low-budget productions. He gained significant recognition for his roles alongside legendary actor John Wayne in notable movies such as Sands of Iwo Jima and She Wore a Yellow Ribbon. Despite later finding himself primarily in B movies, Agar's filmography included memorable titles like Tarantula, The Mole People, The Brain from Planet Arous, Flesh and the Spur, and Hand of Death. He also showcased his talent in the 1951 film The Magic Carpet alongside Lucille Ball.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, Agar was the son of Lillian and John Agar, Sr., a meat packer. He received his education at prestigious institutions including the Harvard School for Boys and Trinity-Pawling Preparatory School, yet he did not pursue college. Following the death of his father, the family relocated to Los Angeles in 1942. Agar served as a sergeant in the Army Air Corps during World War II, returning to civilian life in 1946.

Agar was married to child star Shirley Temple from 1945 to 1950, with whom he had a daughter, Linda Susan Agar. He later married model Loretta Barnett Combs in 1951, and they remained together until her passing in 2000, raising two sons, Martin and John III. Agar passed away in Burbank, California, from emphysema complications and was interred at Riverside National Cemetery. His legacy endures, even mentioned in Frank Zappa's song "The Radio is Broken."