Pernell Roberts, the oldest Cartwright brother on “Bonanza” and doctor on Trapper John M.D., died Sunday at the age of 81.
Pernell Roberts played the oldest Cartwright brother on the television western “Bonanza” and the lead role on the medical drama series “Trapper John M.D.” and In “.
Pernell Roberts began his acting career on stage before moving to Hollywood to be in movies. Roberts’ first movie was “Desire Under the Elms,” which also starred Sophia Loren and Burl Ives.
Pernell landed the role of Adam Cartwright on “Bonanaza” in 1959 and played the oldest son to rancher Ben Cartwright, Lorne Greene.
Roberts left “Bonanza” at the end of the sixth season in 1965, although “Bonanza” stayed on for another eight years.
The actor was married four times but his only son, Chris, was killed in a motorcycle accident in 1989.
His fourth wife, Eleanor Criswill, was at his side when he died on Sunday.
Here’s Pernell Roberts as Cartright Brother in Bonanza:
Pernell Roberts as Trapper John M.D.:
RIP pernell roberts
Man the good ole days!!
