Dan Haggerty – Who Played Grizzly Adams
Dan Haggerty, renowned for his portrayal of the gentle mountain man alongside his beloved bear companion, Ben, in the 1974 film “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” and its subsequent NBC television adaptation, passed away on Friday in Burbank, California. He was 73 years old.
Based on Charles Sellier Jr.’s novel “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams,” the film depicted the narrative of a California man unjustly accused of murder, finding solace in the wilderness where he forms a profound bond with the surrounding wildlife, notably taming an orphaned bear.
Mr. Haggerty embraced the project with fervor, insisting on his involvement for the entire production. The film, remade for a modest $165,000 budget, astoundingly amassed nearly $30 million in box office receipts. Its success led to a television adaptation, with Mr. Haggerty reprising his role as the eco-conscious guardian of the forest and friend to its inhabitants in February 1977.
Receiving acclaim for its heartwarming portrayal, the series garnered praise from critics like John Leonard of The New York Times, who lauded its sentimentality and the endearing camaraderie between man and bear amidst the natural world. Mr. Haggerty’s portrayal earned him the adoration of audiences, culminating in a People’s Choice Award in 1978 for the most popular actor in a new series.
The legacy of “Grizzly Adams” extended beyond the television screen with two subsequent installments: “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” as a TV movie in 1982, concluding Adams’ journey from wilderness exile to redemption in his community.
Born on November 19, 1942, in Los Angeles, Daniel Francis Haggerty’s path to stardom was marked by personal challenges, including a tumultuous childhood and the loss of loved ones. Despite these trials, his career in Hollywood flourished, with notable roles in films such as “Muscle Beach Party” (1964) and appearances in iconic productions like “Easy Rider.”
Off-screen, Mr. Haggerty’s affinity for wildlife was palpable, reflected in his life on a ranch in Malibu Canyon, where he nurtured and cared for an array of animals. His expertise in animal training and stunt work earned him roles in television series like “Tarzan” and “Daktari,” alongside occasional film appearances.
While his career experienced fluctuations, marked by ventures into horror cinema and a brief stint in jail, Mr. Haggerty’s resilience remained steadfast. Even a harrowing incident in 1977, where his signature beard caught fire due to a careless patron’s flaming cocktail, showcased his determination and connection to the natural world, as he recovered swiftly, guided by instinctual wisdom akin to the creatures he cherished.
