Spencer Milligan, cherished by many as the adventurous park ranger and father on the Saturday morning show Land of the Lost, has passed away at 86. His family announced that he died on April 18 at his home in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
A Beloved Role that Defined a Career
Milligan captured hearts playing Rick Marshall, the valiant father figure to Will and Holly Marshall (portrayed by Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman) on Land of the Lost. The show’s unique blend of live-action and stop-motion dinosaurs enchanted viewers as it followed a family plunged into an alternative universe after an earthquake.
Eure fondly recalled their bond on set, saying We were all best friends
and adding, Tday I have been overwhelmed by thousands of fans, reaching out to tell me how Spencer’s performance as Rick Marshall helped guide their young lives. He truly was the dad everybody wanted to have. I will miss his kindness, his talent, his heart and most especially, his enormous capacity for humor. Rest in peace, papa!
A Transformative Presence Both Onscreen And Off
Milligan’s connection with his co-stars extended beyond filming. Coleman expressed her admiration with One of my signature lines from the show was ‘Daddy, do something!’ Well, he most certainly did. He not only became the father figure I needed but a father to all the other children in need of that missing puzzle piece.
Exploring Diverse Roles
Milligan’s acting repertoire extended beyond Land of the Lost. His television career featured a blend of sci-fi adventures and various guest roles in series like The Bionic Woman and The Dukes of Hazzard, showcasing his range as an actor.
A Journey From Stage To Screen
Born on September 10, 1937, in Oak Park, Illinois, Spencer Milligan began his career on stage before moving to California. This transition saw him land diverse roles from playing in Woody Allen’s film Sleeper, to various notable TV series.
Milligan’s skill captivated audiences during his time at Lyon’s Township High School and furthered at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago. After serving in the U.S. Army through 1966, he pursued acting studies with Lee Strasberg in New York and Joan Darling in Los Angeles.
Mentorship and Contribution to Theater Arts
In recent decades, Milligan dedicated himself to teaching and directing plays at Third Avenue PlayWorks in Sturgeon Bay, enriching many lives through his mentorship. His contribution to theater arts extended beyond his performances.
A Family Man Above All
Milligan’s legacy is also cherished by his family; he met Kerry in August 1991 and married her in December 2002. His godchildren Andee, Hilary, and Spencer survive him as well.
His impact both within his professional circles and personal life leaves a lasting legacy that continues to resonate.
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