Doug McClure, American actor (b. 1935)

Douglas Osborne McClure (May 11, 1935 – February 5, 1995) was a quintessential American actor whose enduring career spanned five decades, from the vibrant era of 1950s television and cinema through to the mid-1990s. Renowned for his rugged good looks and charming screen presence, McClure became a familiar face in a diverse range of genres, though he is perhaps most indelibly linked to the Western genre.

The Iconic Role of Trampas in "The Virginian"

McClure's most celebrated and defining role was undoubtedly that of the spirited cowboy Trampas in NBC's groundbreaking Western series, The Virginian. This series, which aired from 1962 to 1971, was a monumental success and notable for being one of the first Westerns to feature 90-minute episodes, a format that allowed for deeper character development and more intricate storylines. As Trampas, a sometimes hot-headed but ultimately loyal ranch hand at the Shiloh Ranch in Wyoming, McClure was a central figure throughout the entire nine-season, 249-episode run. His character, along with James Drury's the Virginian and Lee J. Cobb's Judge Garth, formed the beloved core of the show, captivating audiences weekly with tales of frontier life, justice, and adventure. His performance as Trampas cemented his status as a beloved television star and a true icon of the American West on screen.

Versatility Beyond the Western: From Detectives to Mayors

While Trampas brought him widespread fame, Douglas McClure's acting prowess extended far beyond the dusty plains of Wyoming. He showcased remarkable versatility, taking on a variety of roles across different genres throughout his extensive career. Early in his career, he starred as detective Jed Sills in the CBS crime drama Checkmate (1960-1962), demonstrating his capability in contemporary settings. In cinema, McClure appeared in notable films such as John Huston's Western drama The Unforgiven (1960) alongside Burt Lancaster and Audrey Hepburn, and the critically acclaimed Civil War drama Shenandoah (1965). The 1970s saw him become a cult figure in a series of British science fiction and fantasy films adapted from Edgar Rice Burroughs' novels, including The Land That Time Forgot (1974), At the Earth's Core (1976), and The People That Time Forgot (1977), where he often played intrepid adventurers in prehistoric worlds. Later in his career, McClure demonstrated his comedic timing and versatility as Mayor Kyle Applegate in the popular fantasy sitcom Out of This World, which aired from 1987 to 1991. In this series, he played the human mayor of Marathon, California, who was romantically involved with the mother of an alien-human hybrid teenager, a role that highlighted his ability to transition effortlessly between dramatic and comedic performances.

A Lasting Legacy in Film and Television

Douglas McClure's career was a testament to his dedication and adaptability in the entertainment industry. From his early guest appearances in popular shows like Maverick and Bonanza to his long-standing leading roles, he consistently delivered memorable performances. His distinctive voice, commanding presence, and ability to infuse his characters with both strength and charm ensured his enduring popularity. He passed away on February 5, 1995, at the age of 59, due to lung cancer, leaving behind a rich filmography that continues to entertain and resonate with audiences. His contribution to classic American television, particularly through his iconic portrayal of Trampas, firmly establishes him as a significant figure in broadcast history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Douglas McClure

What was Douglas McClure best known for?
Douglas McClure is most widely recognized for his portrayal of the cowboy Trampas in the long-running NBC Western series The Virginian, a role he maintained for the show's entire nine-season run from 1962 to 1971.
What other significant roles did Douglas McClure have?
Beyond The Virginian, McClure also had prominent roles as detective Jed Sills in Checkmate (1960-1962) and as Mayor Kyle Applegate in the popular fantasy sitcom Out of This World (1987-1991). He also starred in several 1970s sci-fi films like The Land That Time Forgot.
How long was Douglas McClure's career?
Douglas McClure's prolific career in film and television spanned over four decades, beginning in the 1950s and continuing until his passing in 1995.
What was unique about "The Virginian" series?
The Virginian was notable for being one of the first Western television series to feature 90-minute episodes, which allowed for more expansive storytelling and character development than typical hour-long dramas of its time.