Born on September 1, 1920, in Los Angeles, California, he began his career as a stuntman in the 1930s, appearing in numerous Westerns and action films. Over time, he transitioned to acting, earning acclaim for his naturalistic performances. He received two Academy Award nominations: for "Comes a Horseman" (1978) and "The Straight Story" (1999). Known for his rugged charm and authenticity, he became a beloved figure in Hollywood. He passed away on October 6, 2000.