The film, adapted from the book by Charles Sellier Jr., was an unexpected success. Despite a modest budget of $165,000, it grossed nearly $30 million at the box office. This remarkable achievement prompted the development of a TV series adaptation, in which Haggerty reprises his role as a wildlife ranger.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” delighted viewers with its warm and sincere tone. What followed was the story of a man falsely accused of murder who finds solace in the wild, bonds with animals and adopts an orphaned bear cub. As John Leonard of The New York Times rightly pointed out in his review, the series “warms the heart,” combining elements of connecting with nature and stirring emotions.
Haggerty’s portrayal of Grizzly Adams earned him the admiration of fans and even the 1978 People’s Choice Award for Most Popular Actor in a New Series. The show’s success also spawned sequels such as “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” in 1982.
Film based on the novel by Charles Sellier Jr. it unexpectedly became a hit. Despite being made for just $165,000, it grossed nearly $30 million at the box office. This success led to a TV series adaptation, with Haggerty reprising his role as the nature-loving wildlife ranger.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” captivated the audience with its warm and sincere tone. It told the story of a man wrongly accused of murder who found solace in the woods, formed a bond with animals and adopted an orphaned bear cub. John Leonard of The New York Times aptly described the show as “heartwarming,” blending themes of respect for nature with emotional storytelling.
Haggerty’s portrayal of Grizzly Adams earned him the adoration of fans and the 1978 People’s Choice Award for Most Popular Actor in a New Series. The show’s success spawned sequels such as “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” in 1982.
However, Haggerty faced challenges in his personal life. Born Daniel Francis Haggerty on November 19, 1942 in Los Angeles, he had a difficult childhood after his parents divorced when he was three. Despite running away from military school several times, he eventually settled down with his actor father in Burbank.
In his early career, Haggerty appeared in various films, including “Muscle Beach Party” in 1964 and had a role in the cult classic “Easy Rider” as a member of a hippie commune. He fully embraced his love of nature, living on a small ranch in Malibu Canyon among domesticated and rescued wild animals. This unique lifestyle led me to work as an animal trainer and stuntman for TV series such as “Tarzan” and “Doctors”.
Throughout his life, Haggerty continued to take on roles that emphasized his passion for the wild and the outdoors. From films like 1974’s “Where the North Wind Blows” to 1997’s “Grizzly Mountain,” he has consistently portrayed characters reminiscent of Grizzly Adams. He also dabbled in horror films, appearing in films such as “Terror Night” in 1987 and “Elves” in 1989.
Despite his success, Haggerty faced setbacks. In 1985, he served a 90-day prison sentence for selling cocaine to undercover police officers. Additionally, he suffered a tragic accident in 1977 when a patron accidentally set his famous beard on fire in a restaurant, causing severe burns to his hands. Incredibly, Haggerty used his knowledge of animal healing to make a speedy recovery.
Even after his death, Dan Haggerty will forever remain in our memories as the good-natured mountain man who brought happiness and comfort to our screens. His portrayal of Grizzly Adams and his deep love for nature will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Dan Haggerty leaves behind a lasting legacy that is survived by his children Megan, Tracy, Dylan, Cody and Don. His influence will continue to resonate and inspire future generations.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education