Richard Long, born on December 17, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, was a versatile and accomplished
American actor, renowned for his significant contributions to both film and television
during the mid-20th century.
With his classic good looks and compelling screen presence, Long secured a variety of
roles that showcased his extensive acting range and ability to adapt to different genres.
He is perhaps best remembered for his roles in the television series "The Big Valley"
and "Nanny and the Professor," and for his participation in films like "The Egg and I,"
where he played Tom Kettle.
Despite his successful career and the promise of a flourishing future in the entertainment
industry, Richard Long's life was tragically cut short when he died at the young age of
47 on December 21, 1974, due to complications related to a severe lung condition.
His untimely death left a void in the industry, but his legacy endures through his enduring
and memorable performances.
Join Facts Verse, as we present: What Happened to Richard Long After the Big Valley?
He Died at 47
Early Life Richard Long was an American actor, born on
December 17, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois.
Richard Long grew up in a middle-class family and developed an interest in acting from a
young age.
He was raised in various cities due to his father's work, which allowed him to experience
different environments and people, enriching his perspective and understanding of characters.
Richard began his acting career in the late 1940s.
He was discovered by a Universal-International talent scout while he was in college, which
led to a contract and his first film role in the 1946 movie "Tomorrow is Forever," where
he played Drew, the adopted son of Claudette Colbert's character.
Following his debut, Long continued to secure roles in various films, showcasing his versatility
as an actor.
He appeared in movies like "The Stranger" (1946) and "The Life of Riley" (1949).
His good looks and acting skills made him a popular choice for a variety of roles, and
he quickly gained recognition in Hollywood.
Career Highlights Richard Long’s acting career spanned several
decades, and he is remembered for his significant contributions to both film and television.
Here are some of the highlights of his career.
Richard Long’s film career began in the mid-1940s, and he quickly gained recognition
with his debut in "Tomorrow is Forever" (1946).
He went on to appear in several notable films, showcasing his versatility and acting prowess.
Some of his notable films include: "The Stranger" (1946), directed by Orson Welles, where Long
played a supporting role.
"Ma and Pa Kettle" (1949), a comedy film where he played Tom Kettle.
"House on Haunted Hill" (1959), a horror film where he played Lance Schroeder.
Richard Long found considerable success on the small screen, with roles in several popular
television series: "Bourbon Street Beat" (1959–1960): Long played Rex Randolph, a private detective,
in this series set in New Orleans.
"77 Sunset Strip" (1960–1961): He continued his role as Rex Randolph in this related series,
set in Los Angeles.
"The Big Valley" (1965–1969): Perhaps his most well-known role, Long played Jarrod Barkley,
the eldest son of the Barkley family, alongside Barbara Stanwyck, who played the family matriarch.
The series was a hit and earned Long widespread acclaim for his performance.
Richard Long’s performances were well-received by both audiences and critics alike.
His portrayal of diverse characters showcased his range as an actor, and his work in "The
Big Valley" is particularly celebrated for its depth and nuance.
The Egg and I Richard Long had a role in the 1947 comedy
film "The Egg and I," The film starred Claudette Colbert and Fred MacMurray and was based on
the book of the same name by Betty MacDonald.
The story revolves around a city couple who decide to start a chicken farm in the countryside,
encountering various comedic situations along the way.
Richard played the role of Tom Kettle in the film, a character who is part of a neighboring
family.
While his role was significant and contributed to the overall narrative of the film, it was
more of a supporting role rather than a leading one.
But it was notable in that the characters Ma and Pa Kettle, played by Marjorie Main
and Percy Kilbride respectively, who were also neighbors in the film, ended up being
so popular that they received their own series of spin-off films, known as the "Ma and Pa
Kettle" series.
Richard ended up joining four of these films.
The Big Valley Richard Long is perhaps best remembered for
his role in the television series "The Big Valley," which aired from 1965 to 1969.
In this series, Long portrayed Jarrod Barkley, the eldest son of the wealthy and influential
Barkley family, living in the 19th-century American West.
The series was a significant part of Long’s career and showcased his ability to bring
depth and nuance to his characters.
In "The Big Valley," Richard Long's character, Jarrod Barkley, is a sophisticated and educated
lawyer, providing a contrast to the rough-and-tumble environment of the American West.
Long’s portrayal of Jarrod was marked by a sense of dignity and moral integrity, and
he often served as the voice of reason within the family dynamics.
His performance added a layer of complexity to the series, exploring themes of justice,
family bonds, and societal change in the post-Civil War era.
Long’s influence on the show was substantial.
His character was integral to the narrative structure of "The Big Valley," often driving
the plot forward through his moral dilemmas and professional challenges.
His interactions with other main characters, including Victoria Barkley (played by Barbara
Stanwyck) and Heath Barkley (played by Lee Majors), highlighted the familial bonds and
conflicts that were central to the series.
"The Big Valley" is often considered one of Richard Long’s most prominent roles, earning
him widespread acclaim and recognition.
The series itself was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it has been praised
for its rich storytelling, strong character development, and its portrayal of family dynamics
and societal issues of the time.
The legacy of "The Big Valley" extends beyond its original run, with the series continuing
to be appreciated by fans of classic television.
It has been syndicated in various countries, allowing new generations of viewers to experience
the compelling narratives and performances of the series.
The show's exploration of moral and societal themes remains relevant, and it is often cited
as a prime example of the Western genre in television.
Richard Long’s time on "The Big Valley" was a defining period in his career, showcasing
his acting range and his ability to bring depth to his characters.
His portrayal of Jarrod Barkley is perhaps his best-known role, contributing significantly
to the success and enduring appeal of the series.
"The Big Valley" remains a landmark in television history, with its rich narratives, complex
characters, and exploration of timeless themes ensuring its place in the legacy of American
television.
After The Big Valley After "The Big Valley," Richard Long continued
to work in the entertainment industry, maintaining a presence in both television and film.
However, his career and life were unfortunately cut short due to his untimely death in 1974.
Post "The Big Valley," one of Richard Long's most notable roles was in the television series
"Nanny and the Professor," which aired from 1970 to 1971.
In this series, Long played Professor Harold Everett, a widowed father of three children,
who employs Phoebe Figalilly (played by Juliet Mills) as a nanny.
The show had a magical and comedic theme, with the nanny character possessing some unexplained,
magical abilities.
The series was well-received, and Long’s performance showcased his versatility as an
actor, adapting to a more comedic and light-hearted role.
Richard Long also appeared in a few films after "The Big Valley," continuing to demonstrate
his acting range and versatility.
However, his film appearances were limited, and he was more prominently featured on television
during this period of his career.
Even after his death, Richard Long’s work continues to be recognized and appreciated
by audiences and critics alike.
His roles in various television series and films are revisited by fans of classic cinema
and TV, and his contributions to the industry are acknowledged by contemporary actors and
filmmakers.
Personal Life and Death Richard Long was married to actress and model
Mara Corday.
The couple got married in 1957 and had three children together: Carey, Valerie, and Gregory.
Mara Corday is known for her roles in various films during the 1950s, including “Tarantula”
(1955) and “The Giant Claw” (1957).
The couple shared a life in the entertainment industry and were together until Long’s
untimely death in 1974.
Richard Long struggled with health issues in the later years of his life.
He suffered from a severe lung condition, which ultimately led to his premature death.
He passed away in Los Angeles, California, just four days after his 47th birthday, due
to pneumonia and heart failure, complications related to his lung condition.
Richard Long’s untimely death was a significant loss to the entertainment industry.
He left behind a rich legacy of work in both film and television, and he is remembered
for his versatile acting skills and his significant contributions to the industry.
His roles in series like "The Big Valley" and "Nanny and the Professor," as well as
his various film roles, continue to be appreciated by fans of classic cinema and television.
After his death, Richard Long’s work continued to gain recognition, and his performances
are still celebrated for their depth and authenticity.
His portrayal of a range of characters showcased his ability to adapt to different genres and
bring a unique presence to his roles.
Richard Long’s personal life was intertwined with his career in the entertainment industry,
marked by his marriage to Mara Corday and his roles in various notable films and television
series.
His untimely death left a void in the industry, but his legacy lives on through his body of
work, and he continues to be remembered as a talented and versatile actor.
Now it’s time to hear from you!
What’s your favorite memory of Richard Long?
Let us know in the comments section below!