David Janssen

Biography

David Janssen, originally named David Harold Meyer, was born on March 27, 1931, in Naponee, Nebraska. He was the son of Berniece Mae (Graf) and Harold Edward Meyer, who worked as a banker. With roots tracing back to German, Swiss-German, and Ulster-Scots heritage, he later adopted the surname of his stepfather, Eugene Janssen. The Janssen family relocated to Hollywood during David's teenage years, where he attended Fairfax High School and honed his passion for acting.

David's acting career began with a minor role in the film It's a Pleasure (1945), and at just 18, he signed a contract with 20th Century-Fox. However, he was released from the contract due to the studio's dissatisfaction with his appearance. His fortunes changed when he joined Universal Pictures in the early 1950s, appearing in 32 films as a supporting actor. He gained prominence on television with his lead role in Richard Diamond, Private Detective (1956) and became a household name with his portrayal of Dr. Richard Kimble in the acclaimed series The Fugitive (1963).

Following the show's conclusion, Janssen continued to work relentlessly in films and television, including the short-lived series O'Hara, U.S. Treasury (1971) and the cult classic Harry O (1973). Throughout the 1970s, he appeared in nearly 20 made-for-TV movies. Tragically, he passed away from a heart attack on February 13, 1980, at his Malibu home, at the young age of 48. Speculation regarding his struggles with alcoholism and a demanding work ethic surrounded his untimely death.