Lee Majors

Lee Majors is a celebrated American actor renowned for his work in television and film. Immortalized by his iconic roles in several hit TV series, Majors has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. This article delves into his life, career, and lasting legacy.

ABOUT

Lee Majors, born Harvey Lee Yeary on April 23, 1939, in Wyandotte, Michigan, is a distinguished actor best known for his work in television during the 1970s and 1980s. Majors rose to fame as Heath Barkley in the Western series "The Big Valley" (1965-1969) and later achieved superstar status as Colonel Steve Austin in the science fiction action series "The Six Million Dollar Man" (1973-1978). His charismatic presence and rugged good looks made him a household name.

BEFORE FAME

Majors faced a challenging early life, having lost both of his biological parents in separate accidents before he was even two years old. He was subsequently adopted and raised by his aunt and uncle in Middlesboro, Kentucky. A talented athlete, Majors attended Indiana University on a football scholarship before transferring to Eastern Kentucky University. A severe back injury derailed his athletic pursuits, leading him to discover a passion for acting. He moved to Los Angeles in 1962, where he began to study at the Dick Clayton's acting school before landing minor roles that eventually paved the way for his breakout in "The Big Valley."

TRIVIA

• Lee Majors' iconic character in "The Six Million Dollar Man" was widely celebrated for its groundbreaking special effects and compelling storytelling.
• The theme song from "The Fall Guy," another of Majors' successful series, was sung by Majors himself.
• He was often typecast as the quintessential action hero, which he embraced but also occasionally found limiting as an artist.
• Majors has made numerous guest appearances in various television shows and films, maintaining a steady presence in Hollywood.

FAMILY LIFE

Lee Majors has had a colorful personal life marked by several high-profile marriages. He was first married to Kathy Robinson from 1961 until 1964, with whom he had a son, Lee Majors Jr. He then married actress Farrah Fawcett in 1973, a union that lasted until their separation in 1979 and divorce in 1982. His third marriage was to Karen Velez, a former Playboy Playmate, from 1988 until their divorce in 1994, and they have three children: twin sons, Dane and Trey, and a daughter named Nikki. Lee Majors married his current wife, Faith Cross, in 2002, and they remain together.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Lee Majors' career has seen him associate with some of Hollywood's biggest names. He starred alongside Barbara Stanwyck in "The Big Valley" and worked with notable actors and producers in the making of "The Six Million Dollar Man," including Richard Anderson who played Oscar Goldman. His marriage to Farrah Fawcett also placed him in the limelight, making them one of Hollywood's most glamorous couples in the 1970s.

Majors continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment world, remembered for his impressive contributions to television and film. His enduring legacy is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor.