I saw that actor Earl Holliman passed away on November 25th, 2024 at 96 years of age. For someone who loves movies as much as I do, Mr. Holliman has been a pleasant part of my life over the years, and it makes me sad that he’s gone.

I first really noticed Earl Holliman as one of the sons of Katie Elder along with John Wayne and Dean Martin. I like John Wayne movies so I’ve watched it quite a few times over the years. There’s just something about Holliman that appeals to me, and his fate in the film still makes me sad. Later, in 2006, I acted in the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council production of THE RAINMAKER in Hope, Arkansas. The 1956 movie version stars Burt Lancaster, Katherine Hepburn, Lloyd Bridges and Earl Holliman. I played the Lloyd Bridges part, so I watched the movie several times to help me get into my character. Holliman was just so good in the movie. He won a Golden Globe for his performance in the film, and it just made me notice him that much more. Finally, as part of the THIS WEEK IN CHARLES BRONSON podcast, I had the opportunity to interview actor Jordan Rhodes who had worked with Charles Bronson in MR. MAJESTYK and THE INDIAN RUNNER. As part of the interview, Jordan told us some of the things that made him proud over the years during his time in Hollywood. He told us about the time that his mom was visiting him in Los Angeles, and how proud he was to be able to introduce her to Earl Holliman who was working on POLICE WOMAN with Angie Dickinson at the time. His story was complimentary of Mr. Holliman and just another really nice thing to hear. 

Thanks, Earl Holliman, for adding joy to my life over the years through your performances on TV and in the movies. Much love and respect for a job well done, sir. Rest in peace.