Hugh Obrian

Hugh O'Brian, 'Wyatt Earp' Star, Dies at 91

O'Brian was known for his starring roles in the ABC Western television series 'The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp' and the NBC action television series 'Search'

The actor also founded a long-running youth leadership development organization

Hugh O'Brian, who starred as Wyatt Earp in the first TV western aimed at adults, has died. He was 91.

O'Brian died Sunday at his home in Beverly Hills, California, his publicist, Edward Lozzi, told CNN. The cause of death was not immediately known.

O'Brian was born Hugh Charles Krampe on April 19, 1925, in Rochester, New York. He served in the Marine Corps during World War II and later studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse.

O'Brian's film career began in the early 1950s, and he quickly became known for his rugged good looks and athleticism. He starred in such films as "Never Fear" (1950), "The Shootist" (1976), and "The Wild Bunch" (1969).

In 1955, O'Brian was cast as Wyatt Earp in "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp," which ran for six seasons on ABC. The series was a huge success, and O'Brian became one of the most popular actors on television.

After "Wyatt Earp" ended, O'Brian starred in the NBC action series "Search" from 1972 to 1973. He also made numerous guest appearances on other television shows and in films.

In addition to his acting career, O'Brian was also a philanthropist. He founded the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Foundation in 1958, which provides leadership training to high school students.

O'Brian was married twice, first to Mary Lou Johnson from 1953 to 1959 and then to Virginia O'Brian from 1961 until her death in 1978. He had three children, Hugh Jr., Todd, and Bridget.