RIP: Robert Conrad

Robert Conrad died today at age 84.  Conrad best known for acting was also a singer, writer and director.  Although he starred in feature films, it was Conrad’s television roles that made him a star.  First with Hawaiian Eye, then his biggest hit, The Wild, Wild West and later The D.A., Black Sheep Squadron, A Man Called Sloane and High Mountain Rangers.

But it was The Wild, Wild West that Conrad’s fans loved the most.  Perfectly cast as James West who partnered with Artemus Gordon (played by Ross Martin, also perfectly cast) as spies in the old west.  The show ran for four seasons and was still doing well in the ratings when it was cancelled by CBS in an effort to reduce network violence.  The Wild, Wild West was so popular in re-runs that two tv movies were made over a decade later.

Conrad was a member of the Stuntman’s Hall of Fame and winner of the Distinguished Service Award in Broadcasting.

On a personal note, the death of Robert Conrad is heartbreaking.   I can’t tell you how many times I pretended to be James West as a kid or how many times I’ve watched each episode of The Wild, Wild West.  It’s still set to be recorded daily on my dvr (and I own the complete series on dvd).  A huge piece of my childhood died with him.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Robert Conrad’s family, friends and fans.