Written by: Aisha Patel

Lee Majors: The Iconic Actor Behind Television's Most Memorable Characters

Lee Majors is a household name, synonymous with some of television's most iconic characters. From the rugged Heath Barkley in The Big Valley to the bionic marvel Colonel Steve Austin in The Six Million Dollar Man, and the daredevil stuntman Colt Seavers in The Fall Guy, Majors has left an indelible mark on the small screen.

Early Life and Career

Born Harvey Lee Yeary on April 23, 1939, in Wyandotte, Michigan, Majors' life was marked by tragedy from an early age. His parents, Carl and Alice Yeary, died in separate accidents - his father in a work accident before he was born, and his mother in a car accident when he was just 17 months old. Adopted by his uncle and aunt, Harvey and Mildred Yeary, Majors moved to Middlesboro, Kentucky, where he grew up with a passion for sports.

Majors excelled in track and football at Middlesboro High School, earning a scholarship to Indiana University. However, a severe back injury during his first year of college left him paralyzed for two weeks, ending his college athletic career. It was during this time that he discovered his love for acting, performing in plays at the Pioneer Playhouse in Danville, Kentucky. Majors graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 1962 with a degree in history and physical education.

Rise to Fame

After college, Majors moved to Los Angeles, where he worked as a recreation director for North Hollywood Park. It was during this time that he met industry professionals, including Dick Clayton, who had been James Dean's agent. Clayton encouraged Majors to attend his acting school, and after a year, he felt confident enough to pursue a career in acting.

Majors' breakthrough role came in 1965, when he played Heath Barkley in the popular Western series The Big Valley. The show ran for four seasons, establishing Majors as a rising star. His next major role, Colonel Steve Austin in The Six Million Dollar Man, cemented his status as a television icon. The show's success led to a seven-year run, earning Majors multiple Emmy nominations.

The Fall Guy and Later Career

In 1981, Majors starred as Colt Seavers in the action-packed series The Fall Guy, which ran for five seasons. The show's blend of humor and high-octane stunts solidified Majors' reputation as a versatile actor.

In the years that followed, Majors continued to appear in various television shows and films, including The Love Boat, Hart to Hart, and Tour of Duty. He has also made guest appearances on popular shows like ER and Boston Legal.

Awards and Legacy

Throughout his career, Majors has been recognized with multiple award nominations, including two Emmy nominations for his work on The Six Million Dollar Man. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and has been inducted into the Kentucky Entertainment Hall of Fame.

Lee Majors' impact on popular culture is undeniable. His iconic characters have become a part of our collective memory, and his influence can be seen in many modern action heroes. As a true television legend, Majors continues to inspire new generations of actors and fans alike.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

In addition to his acting career, Majors is dedicated to various charitable causes, including the March of Dimes and the United Service Organizations (USO). He has been married four times and has four children.

Today, Lee Majors remains an beloved figure in the entertainment industry, cherished for his contributions to television and his enduring legacy as a cultural icon.