Don DeFore

Born on August 25, 1913, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Don DeFore's journey to Hollywood was a testament to his determination and talent. He would come to be known for his roles in iconic television shows, most notably "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" and "Hazel," carving out a unique niche as the quintessential American everyman on screen. DeFore's Midwestern upbringing instilled in him a sturdy work ethic that served him well in the competitive world of entertainment. After studying at the University of Iowa, he moved to Los Angeles in pursuit of an acting career. His first break came on Broadway in the 1938 show "Where Do We Go from Here?" and he garnered further attention when he took on the role of Wally Myers in "The Male Animal," a part he would revisit in the 1942 film adaptation. With World War II underway, DeFore's career took a detour. During the height of the conflict, he served as an Air Force instructor and maintained his theatrical connections by participating in theatrical tours to entertain troops—efforts that combined his love for acting and patriotism. Post-war Hollywood was kind to DeFore. His congenial demeanor and relatability made him a fixture in film, appearing alongside major stars in movies like "You Came Along" (1945) with Robert Cummings and Lizabeth Scott, and "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" (1947). Despite his success on the silver screen, it was television that would ultimately define DeFore's career. Between 1952 and 1957, DeFore appeared as "Thorny" Thornberry in the television staple "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet". The show, with its idealized portrayal of American family life, became a cultural touchstone, and DeFore’s portrayal of the friendly neighbor resonated deeply with audiences. His role underscored his innate ability to project warmth and affability, traits that made him a beloved presence on the small screen. In 1961, DeFore took on the starring role in "Hazel" as George Baxter, the affable attorney employer to Shirley Booth's titular character. The show was an immense success, running until 1966, and solidified DeFore’s reputation as a leading man capable of anchoring a sitcom with charm and wit. Booth’s portrayal of a no-nonsense maid won her critical acclaim, while DeFore's role as her employer provided the necessary balance and set the stage for many humorous exchanges. DeFore's television success was complemented by his involvement in several organizations. He was notably active within the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, serving as the president during the early years of television's golden age. This role allowed him to advocate for the medium as a significant cultural force—an endeavor he pursued with vigor. Despite his on-screen success, DeFore's personal life was marked by the stability that often eluded many Hollywood stars. He was married to Marian Holmes since 1942, with whom he had five children. Their marriage, lasting until his death, was an anomaly in an industry notorious for its fleeting relationships, mirroring the family-oriented characters he often portrayed. As television evolved, DeFore adapted, making guest appearances in a wide array of shows including "Fantasy Island" and "Love, American Style" throughout the 1970s. By then, his presence on screen was both nostalgic and reassuring—a symbol of a bygone era of television that characterized the innocence and optimism of post-war America. DeFore’s contributions to entertainment were formally recognized when he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. The accolade was a testament to the breadth and impact of his career, cementing his legacy as a quintessential element of mid-20th-century American television. Don DeFore passed away on December 22, 1993, in Los Angeles, at the age of 80. His enduring popularity is reflected in the continued reruns of his television work, providing a slice of mid-century America that remains appealing amidst the modern era’s complexities. DeFore’s career, characterized by stability in both his professional undertakings and personal life, remains emblematic of the golden age of television. DeFore's affable nature left an indelible mark on American television, creating a beloved archetype of neighborly goodwill and down-to-earth wisdom that endures to this day. Through his roles, he imparted a sense of comfort and reliability to audiences across the nation, offering an idealized portrayal of community and family life that remains an intrinsic part of television history. In a way, Don DeFore epitomized the era he helped define—a period where entertainment aimed to soothe, and where actors like him made enduring connections with their audience through genuine portrayals of friendship and family. The warmth he conveyed continues to echo through generations, solidifying his place as a cherished figure in the annals of American entertainment history.