On Friday, the world bid farewell to a beloved actor and animal lover, Dan Haggerty. At the age of 73, Haggerty, known for his iconic role as the gentle mountain man in “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams,” passed away in Burbank, California, after battling cancer of the spine.
A Legendary Figure
Dan Haggerty captured the hearts of audiences with his impressive beard and his loyal bear companion, Ben. Before his breakthrough role, Haggerty had already established himself in Hollywood as a stuntman and animal handler. However, it was his fateful encounter with a producer that would forever change his life.
The Rise of Grizzly Adams
The film, inspired by a novel written by Charles Sellier Jr., was made on a modest budget of $165,000. Surprisingly, it went on to gross nearly $30 million at the box office, becoming a smash hit. This success led to a television series adaptation, where Haggerty once again portrayed the nature-loving protector of the wilderness.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” resonated deeply with audiences, touching their hearts with its genial and heartfelt tone. The story followed a man falsely accused of murder who seeks refuge in the woods, befriends animals, and adopts an orphaned bear. The New York Times beautifully described the show as something that “lukewarms the heart,” combining the beauty of nature and emotional storytelling.
Adored by Fans
Haggerty’s portrayal of Grizzly Adams earned him the adoration of fans and even a People’s Choice Award in 1978 for being the most popular actor in a new series. The show’s success paved the way for the creation of sequels like “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” in 1982.
A Life Embraced by Nature
Born in Los Angeles on November 19, 1942, Haggerty faced a difficult childhood after his parents’ separation when he was just three years old. He had a troubled youth, often escaping from military school. Eventually, he moved in with his actor-father in Burbank.
Haggerty’s passion for nature led him to live on a small ranch in Malibu Canyon, alongside tamed and rescued wild animals. His unique experience translated into jobs as an animal trainer and stuntman for popular TV series like “Tarzan” and “Daktari.”
A Legacy of Love and the Outdoors
Throughout his life, Haggerty continued to take on roles that showcased his love for wildlife and the outdoors. From films like “Where the North Wind Blows” in 1974 to “Grizzly Mountain” in 1997, he consistently embodied characters reminiscent of Grizzly Adams. He also explored the horror genre, appearing in films such as “Terror Night” in 1987 and “Elves” in 1989.
Overcoming Challenges
Haggerty’s life was not without its challenges. In 1985, he faced legal issues and served a 90-day jail sentence for selling cocaine to undercover police officers. Additionally, in 1977, he experienced a moment of tragedy when a patron accidentally set his famous beard on fire in a restaurant, resulting in severe burns on his arms. Remarkably, Haggerty used his knowledge of animal healing to aid in his swift recovery.
A Forever Remembered Legend
Even though Dan Haggerty has left us, we will always cherish him as the gentle mountain man who brought joy and warmth to our screens. His role as Grizzly Adams and his unwavering love for nature will forever be etched in our hearts.
Dan Haggerty is survived by his children Megan, Tracy, Dylan, Cody, and Don, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
