Lloyd Bridges (January 15, 1913 – March 10, 1998) was a remarkably versatile and enduring American actor who, over a six-decade career, became a beloved television icon, a dependable movie star, and the respected patriarch of a famous acting dynasty.
After working as a character actor for years, Bridges became a superstar in 1958 with his role as ex-Navy frogman Mike Nelson in the action-adventure series Sea Hunt. The show was a massive hit, sparking a national interest in scuba diving and cementing Bridges’ image as a rugged and heroic leading man. He performed most of his own underwater stunts for the series.
His prolific film career included over 150 movies, with a memorable early role as the hot-headed deputy who abandons Gary Cooper in the classic Western High Noon (1952). He showcased his brilliant comedic timing late in his career with a scene-stealing performance as the perpetually sniffing, glue-addicted air traffic controller Steve McCroskey in the classic parody Airplane! (1980).
The father of acclaimed actors Beau Bridges and Jeff Bridges, he often worked alongside his sons. Lloyd Bridges incredible work ethic and ability to succeed in any genre—from Westerns and adventure to tense drama and slapstick comedy—made him one of Hollywood’s most respected and busiest actors.
