Richard Long

Overview

Entering films straight out of high school, Richard Long's good looks served him well and got him a contract at Universal Pictures. Making his debut as Claudette Colbert's son in Tomorrow Is Forever (1946), Long played juvenile leads in many Universal productions (he was one of the sons in the "Ma and Pa Kettle" series), and gradually worked his way into leading parts in second features. His most successful efforts were in television, however, where he became best known for his roles in the western series The Big Valley (1965) and the comedy Nanny and the Professor (1970).
- IMDb mini biography by: frankfob2@yahoo.com

His son Carey passed away in 2008. He inherited his dad's heart problems. He outlived his dad by three years, age wise. He was 50 years old at the time of his death.
Served in the U.S. Army for two years during the Korean War, posted to Fort Ord, California. Also posted to Special Services in Tokyo as a disc jockey and radio actor.
Had cardiac problems throughout his adult life and had suffered a heart attack in 1961.
David Janssen, a friend since both were under contract with Universal-International in the early 1950s, was his neighbor in 1958. Both died in their late 40s from heart attacks.
Linda Evans, his co-star in The Big Valley, visited him during his last hospitalization for his heart condition.

Story telling is a marvelous recess for the human race. Back in the Stone Age there was some guy sitting on a rock telling stories. I'm that guy sitting on the rock.
I had no intention of becoming an actor. I took a senior drama class, because it was a snap course and I needed the credit for my English requirement.
Four years as a freelance actor was the most rewarding experience I've ever had. I had a chance to play all kinds of roles that helped me grow as an actor.
About Claudette Colbert: I was just out of high school, seventeen years old and scared as hell. Tomorrow Is Forever (1946) was my first picture, and playing Claudette's son was the break of my life. Of course I was green and awkward, and I know she sensed my hesitancies and doubts. I always felt that in the complicated scenes I had to do with her that she was playing back specially to me, her eyes willing ease and encouragement. I know I played off her eyes, often. Claudette was a woman of great dignity, and for all her warmth, had a kind of charming reserve.

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