Golden Globe recipient Earl Holliman, renowned for his role as Lieutenant Bill Crowley on NBC’s “Police Woman” and his appearance in the inaugural episode of “The Twilight Zone,” passed away at his home in Studio City, California on November 25. He was 96.
Holliman’s spouse, Craig Curtis, confirmed the actor’s death, stating that he died while receiving hospice care.
Born as Henry Earl Holliman on September 11, 1928, in Delhi, Louisiana, Holliman was adopted from an orphanage when he was only a week old. His adoption fee was $7.50. “I had wonderful parents who gave me all the love in the world. They encouraged me to be whatever I can be. I was their only child,” Holliman recalled.
Holliman’s journey towards acting began at 14 years old when he hitchhiked from Texarkana, Texas, to Hollywood shortly after his father’s death. Although he was persuaded to return home, where he served as senior class president at Oil City High School, his dream of becoming an actor remained steadfast.
Following his service in the U.S. Navy, Holliman studied at the Pasadena Playhouse. His acting career took off in 1956 when he outshined Elvis Presley to win a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Katharine Hepburn’s lively younger brother in “The Rainmaker.”
Holliman’s film career blossomed with roles in “Giant” (1956) with Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson, “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” (1957) alongside Burt Lancaster, and “The Sons of Katie Elder” (1965) with John Wayne.
Television provided Holliman with lasting fame. He made television history by starring in the first-ever “Twilight Zone” episode, “Where Is Everybody?” which aired on October 2, 1959. In this episode, he portrayed an amnesiac wandering in an unsettlingly deserted town.
Holliman’s most notable role was as Lieutenant Bill Crowley on “Police Woman” (1974-1978), where he played the superior officer of Angie Dickinson’s character.
Apart from acting, Holliman ran the Fiesta Dinner Theatre in San Antonio and was the president of Actors and Others for Animals for 34 years. He was honored for his philanthropic work as the national honorary chairman of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.
Holliman’s television career also included appearances on shows like “Gunsmoke,” “Bonanza,” “The Fugitive,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Empty Nest.” He was nominated for another Golden Globe in 1993 for his role in the ABC series “Delta,” which starred Delta Burke.
Reflecting on Holliman’s life, his spouse Curtis described him to Variety as a gracious and kind companion, an excellent host, and a man whose unwavering optimism shone like a 1000-watt smile. His effortless charm and infectious goodwill made him enjoyable and privileged to be around. Curtis portrayed Holliman as a balanced and caring individual, possessing a deep sensitivity and a playful sense of humor, contrasting with his sturdy and handsome exterior.