The television series “The Virginian,” which aired from 1962 to 1971, is an iconic part of American Western drama history. Based on the 1902 novel by Owen Wister, the show was set in the late 19th century in the fictional town of Medicine Bow, Wyoming, and followed the lives of the people associated with the Shiloh Ranch. The series was known for its high-quality storytelling and its ensemble cast, who brought the characters of the Wild West to life. As we look back on this classic series, many fans wonder about the whereabouts of the cast members who became household names during the show’s nine-season run. Here’s a look at “The Virginian” cast and where they are now.
James Drury (The Virginian)
James Drury played the lead role of the stoic and fair foreman known only as The Virginian. After the show ended, Drury continued acting in television and film, though he never found another role as iconic as The Virginian. He also made appearances at Western-themed events and festivals. Sadly, James Drury passed away on April 6, 2020, at the age of 85.
Doug McClure (Trampas)
Doug McClure, known for his role as the affable and handsome cowboy Trampas, continued to act in various television shows and movies after “The Virginian” ended. He became a familiar face on television, guest-starring in numerous series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. McClure’s battle with lung cancer ended with his passing on February 5, 1995, at the age of 59.
Lee J. Cobb (Judge Henry Garth)
Lee J. Cobb, who portrayed Judge Henry Garth, was already a well-respected actor before joining the cast of “The Virginian.” After leaving the show, he continued his successful career in both film and theater until his death on February 11, 1976. Cobb’s legacy as a character actor remains strong, with memorable roles in classics such as “12 Angry Men” and “On the Waterfront.”
Clu Gulager (Emmett Ryker)
Clu Gulager played the part of deputy sheriff Emmett Ryker. Post-“The Virginian,” Gulager’s career spanned a wide range of genres, but he became particularly noted for his work in horror films such as “The Return of the Living Dead” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street Part 2.” He continues to act, with recent appearances in film and television.
Roberta Shore (Betsy Garth)
Roberta Shore portrayed Betsy Garth, the Judge’s daughter. After leaving the show, Shore’s acting career slowed down as she focused on her personal life. She has since made occasional appearances at Western film festivals and has been involved in various non-acting projects.
Randy Boone (Randy Benton)
Randy Boone, who joined the show as Randy Benton, pursued a career in music following his departure from “The Virginian.” He released several albums and continued to act sporadically in television and film. Boone has largely retired from the entertainment industry but remains a beloved figure among fans of the show.
Gary Clarke (Steve Hill)
As Steve Hill, Gary Clarke was part of the original cast but left after the third season. Clarke continued to act and write for television and film. He has also attended Western conventions and has engaged in various business ventures outside of acting.
Diane Roter (Jennifer Sommers)
Diane Roter played Jennifer Sommers in the fourth season of “The Virginian.” After her brief stint on the show, Roter’s acting career was limited, and she eventually left the industry to pursue other interests, including writing and humanitarian work.
Don Quine (Stacey Grainger)
Don Quine portrayed Stacey Grainger in the later seasons of the show. Post-“The Virginian,” Quine appeared in a few more acting roles before transitioning into a career in real estate and business.
John McIntire (Clay Grainger)
John McIntire took over as the owner of Shiloh Ranch, playing Clay Grainger, after Lee J. Cobb’s departure. McIntire had a prolific career in film and television both before and after his time on “The Virginian.” He continued to act into the 1980s and passed away on January 30, 1991.
Jeanette Nolan (Holly Grainger)
Jeanette Nolan, who played Holly Grainger, was married to John McIntire in real life. Nolan was a versatile actress with numerous credits in film, television, and radio. She continued to work steadily until her death on June 5, 1998.
Tim Matheson (Jim Horn)
Tim Matheson, as the young Jim Horn in the final season, went on to have a successful career in television and film. He is well-known for his roles in “National Lampoon’s Animal House” and the television series “The West Wing.” Matheson continues to act and has also worked as a director and producer.
Sara Lane (Elizabeth Grainger)
Sara Lane played Elizabeth Grainger, the niece of Clay and Holly Grainger. After “The Virginian,” Lane made a few more television appearances before retiring from acting to focus on her family. She has since lived a private life away from the spotlight.
Stewart Granger (Colonel Alan MacKenzie)
Stewart Granger, known for his role as Colonel Alan MacKenzie in the final season, was a distinguished actor with a career that spanned several decades. After “The Virginian,” he continued to act in films and television internationally. Granger passed away on August 16, 1993.
Charles Bickford (John Grainger)
Charles Bickford took on the role of John Grainger, the second owner of Shiloh Ranch, after Judge Garth’s departure. Bickford was an Academy Award-nominated actor with a long and storied career. He continued to work until his death on November 9, 1967.
FAQ Section
- How many seasons did “The Virginian” run?
“The Virginian” ran for nine seasons, from 1962 to 1971, making it one of the longest-running Western series in television history.
- Was “The Virginian” based on a book?
Yes, “The Virginian” was based on the 1902 novel of the same name by Owen Wister.
- Are any of the original cast members of “The Virginian” still acting today?
As of the last update, a few cast members such as Clu Gulager and Tim Matheson are still active in the entertainment industry.
In conclusion, “The Virginian” remains a beloved Western series that introduced audiences to a talented ensemble cast. While some cast members continued to thrive in the entertainment industry, others chose different paths or have since passed away. Their contributions to television history, however, will always be remembered through the enduring legacy of “The Virginian.”
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