Dennis Weaver
William Dennis Weaver (June 4, 1924 – February 24, 2006) was an American actor who was best known for his work in television. Weaver's two most notable roles were as Marshal Matt Dillon's trusty helper Chester Goode on the long-running CBS western series Gunsmoke and as Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud on the NBC police drama McCloud. He appeared in the 1971 television film Duel, the first film of director Steven Spielberg. He is also remembered for his role as the twitchy motel attendant in Orson Welles' film Touch of Evil (1958).
Life and career
Early life
Weaver was born in Joplin, Missouri, the son of Walter Weaver and his wife Lenna Prather. His father was of English, Irish, Scottish, Cherokee, and Osage ancestry. Weaver wanted to be an actor from childhood. He lived in Shreveport Louisiana for several years, and for a short time in Manteca, California. He studied at Joplin Junior College, now Missouri Southern State University, then transferred to the University of Oklahoma at Norman, where he studied drama and was a track star, setting records in several events. During World War II he served as a pilot in the United States Navy. After the war, he married Gerry Stowell, with whom he had three children. Weaver tried out for the 1948 U.S. Olympic team in the decathlon, finishing sixth behind 17-year-old high school track star Bob Mathias. However, only the top three finishers were selected. Weaver later commented, "I did so poorly [in the Olympic Trials], I decided to ... stay in New York and try acting."
