Born on April 2, 1908, in Belleville, Illinois, he began his career as a dancer and vaudeville performer before transitioning to film and television. He gained fame for his role as Jed Clampett on the iconic TV show "The Beverly Hillbillies" and as the title character in the detective series "Barnaby Jones." Originally cast as the Tin Man in "The Wizard of Oz," he had to withdraw due to a severe reaction to makeup. He passed away on July 6, 2003, leaving a legacy as a beloved entertainer.