Leif Erickson: Before & After Fame - From Band To High Chaparral

Could the man who played the stalwart patriarch in "The High Chaparral" have been anything other than a natural? Leif Erickson, a name synonymous with the golden age of television and cinema, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, and his journey to become a household name is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal.

Before captivating audiences on the silver screen, Leif Erickson, born William Wycliffe Anderson, honed his musical talents. Prior to his acting career, Erickson was a man of music, singing and playing the trombone in a band, laying the groundwork for the performer he would become.

His acting career commenced in 1933, a period during which he transitioned from the world of music to the world of film, with an early role in "The Sweetheart of Sigma Chi." This was followed by the short film "Air Tonic," marking the beginning of a prolific career. By 1935, Erickson found himself co-starring in his first western, alongside the likes of Buster Crabbe. "Drift Fence" and "Desert Gold" were among the early films that showcased his burgeoning talents in the genre.

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Full Name	William Wycliffe Anderson (later known as Leif Erickson)
Date of Birth	October 27, 1911
Place of Birth	Alameda, California, USA
Date of Death	January 29, 1986
Place of Death	Pensacola, Florida, USA
Height	6 ft 3 in (191.8 cm)
Occupation	Actor (Stage, Film, and Television)
Known For	"The High Chaparral," "On the Waterfront," "Show Boat"
Spouse(s)	Annie Ruth Diamond, Margaret Hayes, Frances Farmer
Military Service	U.S. Navy (World War II)
Early Career	Soloist in a band (vocalist and trombone player), stage performances
Notable Film Appearances	The High Chaparral (1967), On the Waterfront (1954), Show Boat (1951), Invaders from Mars, The Snake Pit
Other Activities	Toured with Rock Hudson and Claire Trevor in "John Brown's Body"
Son	William Leif Erickson (deceased in a traffic accident in 1971)
Reference Website	IMDb

The circumstances of Erickson's upbringing, born in Alameda, California, near San Francisco, played a pivotal role in his ascent to Hollywood stardom. He initially pursued music, working as a soloist in a band, showcasing his talents as a vocalist and trombone player. This background provided a foundation for his later performances and demonstrated his aptitude for performing in front of an audience.

Erickson's talent extended beyond his musical endeavors. He also gained stage experience, including a comedic vaudeville act. This would prove invaluable as he transitioned to film and television. This range of performance experiences helped to prepare him for the multifaceted career he would have. He later performed in Max Reinhardt's productions. Later, he began to hone his craft through various stage performances and small television roles before catching the eye of casting directors for larger projects.

In 1954, he appeared in "On the Waterfront," a critically acclaimed film that further cemented his reputation as a formidable actor. His presence in the film, alongside Marlon Brando, indicated his caliber and cemented his position in the industry. He would continue his path and, in 1967, secured the role of John Cannon in "The High Chaparral," a role which brought him great recognition. The character of John Cannon, the steadfast father, was a perfect fit for the actor. It was a role where his presence and acting skill was used, and became one of the defining roles of his career.

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The television series, "The High Chaparral," was a cornerstone of Erickson's career. The role of John Cannon was a perfect embodiment of the actor's presence and talents, solidifying his standing as a prominent figure in the television industry. It was a good choice, with producer David Dortort having spied him years earlier playing God in a "Bonanza" episode, and his performance made such an impression that no one else was even considered for the part of John Cannon.

Erickson's career encompassed a diverse range of roles across stage, film, and television. His ability to adapt to different formats and genres exemplified his versatility as an actor. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, showcasing his dedication to his country, which later made him an icon.

His personal life included three marriages, providing further dimensions to the man behind the actor. His marriages to Annie Ruth Diamond, Margaret Hayes, and Frances Farmer, also were pivotal aspects of his life, adding layers to his persona that would further humanize him to the public.

The actor's life was not without its tragedies. A traffic accident in 1971 claimed the life of his only son, William Leif Erickson. This loss deeply impacted him, and the show turned out to be near the end of Erickson's movie career.

Throughout his career, Erickson collaborated with numerous other celebrated actors and actresses. He worked with Rock Hudson and Claire Trevor in the production of "John Brown's Body" by Stephen Vincent Benet in 1976. The show turned out to be near the end of Erickson's movie career. This demonstrated the variety of his career, and the respect he had from his peers.

The actor's legacy continues to inspire, a testament to a life well-lived and a career defined by excellence. His contributions to the entertainment industry are still recognized. Leif Ericksons journey to stardom began with humble beginnings in the world of acting. He had a long career in films and musicals, and changed his name from William Wycliffe Anderson to Leif Erickson after a screen test.

Erickson's performances in "Show Boat" (1951), and his ability to deliver nuanced portrayals across these genres, confirmed him as a notable actor. He was known for his versatility, his ability to portray characters of various backgrounds and complexities.

The actor was known for his roles in films such as "The High Chaparral," "On the Waterfront," "Invaders from Mars," and "The Snake Pit," cementing his place as a versatile performer. From the stage to the big screen to television, Erickson always gave a memorable performance.

Leif Erickson, the man born William Wycliffe Anderson, lived a life filled with artistry, dedication, and enduring love for the craft of acting. He was a versatile actor who played big John Cannon on the high chaparral, a western tv series. He passed away in Pensacola, Florida, on January 29, 1986, at the age of 74, after battling cancer, leaving a wealth of performances for generations to come.

Leif being Leif, there were no headlines when it happened. His performances, whether on stage, screen, or television, always left a lasting impression, and his legacy continues to live on. Erickson was a versatile actor, who made an impact on film, stage, and television.