Richard Long
Actor
About Richard Long
Richard Long was an American actor whose career spanned nearly three decades in Hollywood's Golden Age and early television era. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he began his acting career as a teenager, making his film debut in Orson Welles' classic thriller 'The Stranger' (1946) at just 19 years old. Throughout the late 1940s and 1950s, Long established himself as a reliable character actor and leading man in numerous films, including the horror classic 'House on Haunted Hill' (1959) opposite Vincent Price. As the studio system declined and television rose to prominence, Long successfully transitioned to the small screen, becoming particularly well-known for his roles in popular Western and dramatic series. He starred as the lead in 'The Big Valley' (1965-1969) as Jarrod Barkley, alongside Barbara Stanwyck, and earlier in 'Naked City' (1960-1961). Long's career was characterized by his versatility, moving seamlessly between film noir, Westerns, horror, and television drama. Despite his untimely death at age 47 from a heart attack, Long left behind a substantial body of work that exemplified the transition from classic Hollywood cinema to the television era.
The Craft
On Screen
Richard Long was known for his naturalistic and understated acting style, which made him particularly effective in both dramatic and genre films. He possessed a calm, authoritative presence that served him well in roles ranging from earnest protagonists to sophisticated villains. His acting approach was rooted in the realistic tradition that emerged in post-war American cinema, avoiding the theatricality of earlier Hollywood styles while maintaining the polished delivery expected of studio actors. Long had particular skill in conveying complex emotions through subtle facial expressions and controlled vocal delivery, making him especially effective in suspense and noir contexts.
Milestones
- Film debut in Orson Welles' 'The Stranger' (1946)
- Starred in William Castle's 'House on Haunted Hill' (1959)
- Lead role in 'Naked City' TV series (1960-1961)
- Co-starred with Barbara Stanwyck in 'The Big Valley' (1965-1969)
- Appeared in over 50 films and television productions
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Boot Award (1984, posthumous)
Nominated
- Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Series (1961, for 'Naked City')
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Richard Long's career exemplified the transition from Hollywood's Golden Age studio system to the television era. His work in classic films like 'The Stranger' and 'House on Haunted Hill' contributed to two of the most influential films in their respective genres - film noir and horror. As television became the dominant medium in the 1960s, Long's successful transition to TV stardom in 'The Big Valley' helped establish the template for ensemble Western dramas. His portrayal of the educated, thoughtful Jarrod Barkley provided a counterpoint to the more typical rugged cowboy archetype, adding intellectual depth to the Western genre. Long's career trajectory also reflected the broader changes in American entertainment, from the studio-controlled film industry to the more flexible television production model.
Lasting Legacy
Richard Long left a lasting legacy as a versatile performer who successfully navigated the changing landscape of American entertainment. His early work in classic films preserved his contributions to important examples of film noir and horror cinema. His later television success in 'The Big Valley' ensured his place in Western television history, with the series maintaining a dedicated fanbase decades after its conclusion. Long's ability to adapt from film to television while maintaining his artistic integrity serves as a model for actors transitioning between mediums. His premature death at the height of his television career left fans wondering what other memorable performances he might have delivered, cementing his status as a beloved figure among classic film and television enthusiasts.
Who They Inspired
Richard Long influenced subsequent generations of character actors through his demonstrated versatility across genres and mediums. His naturalistic acting style, which avoided the theatricality common in earlier Hollywood films while maintaining professional polish, helped pave the way for more realistic performances in both film and television. His success in ensemble casts, particularly in 'The Big Valley,' showed how strong character actors could elevate ensemble productions without needing to be the primary star. Long's career also demonstrated the importance of adaptability in an entertainment industry undergoing rapid technological and cultural changes, serving as an example for actors navigating similar transitions in later decades.
Off Screen
Richard Long married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Suzan Ball, a cousin of Lucille Ball, in 1954, but she tragically died of cancer in 1955 at age 21. In 1957, he married Mara Corday, an actress and model, with whom he had three children. The couple remained married until Long's death. Long was known as a devoted family man who balanced his demanding career with his home life. His sudden death from a heart attack at age 47 shocked his family and colleagues, coming just four days after his 47th birthday.
Education
Attended Hollywood High School, studied drama at the University of Southern California (briefly before leaving for acting career)
Family
- Suzan Ball (1954-1955, her death)
- Mara Corday (1957-1974, his death)
Did You Know?
- Was discovered by Orson Welles while working as a pageboy at NBC
- His first wife Suzan Ball died just one year after their marriage
- Served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War
- Was a skilled horseman, which served him well in Western roles
- Received his Hollywood Walk of Fame star in 1960 for his television work
- Was a cousin-in-law to Lucille Ball through his first marriage
- House on Haunted Hill
- was one of his most financially successful films',
- Appeared in episodes of over 20 different television series
- Was considered for the role of James Bond before Sean Connery was cast
- His death from a heart attack was unexpected as he appeared to be in good health
In Their Own Words
Acting is not about being famous, it's about exploring the human condition.
Every role, whether it's a lead or a supporting part, has its own challenges and rewards.
The transition from film to television wasn't difficult for me because good acting is good acting, regardless of the medium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Richard Long?
Richard Long was an American actor active from 1946 to 1974, known for his work in both classic Hollywood films and television series. He appeared in notable films like 'The Stranger' (1946) and 'House on Haunted Hill' (1959), and later achieved TV fame in 'The Big Valley' and 'Naked City'.
What films is Richard Long best known for?
Richard Long is best known for 'The Stranger' (1946) directed by Orson Welles, the horror classic 'House on Haunted Hill' (1959) with Vincent Price, and his television work in 'The Big Valley' (1965-1969) and 'Naked City' (1960-1961).
When was Richard Long born and when did he die?
Richard Long was born on December 17, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, and died on December 21, 1974, in Los Angeles, California, from a heart attack at age 47.
What awards did Richard Long win?
Richard Long received a Primetime Emmy nomination for 'Naked City' in 1961 and was posthumously awarded the Golden Boot Award in 1984 for his contributions to Western entertainment. He also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
What was Richard Long's acting style?
Richard Long was known for his naturalistic and understated acting style, avoiding theatricality while maintaining professional polish. He excelled at conveying complex emotions through subtle expressions and was particularly effective in dramatic roles and genre films.
Did Richard Long serve in the military?
Yes, Richard Long served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, taking a break from his acting career to fulfill his military duty.
How did Richard Long get discovered?
Richard Long was discovered by director Orson Welles while working as a pageboy at NBC. Welles cast him in 'The Stranger' (1946), which became Long's film debut at age 19.
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Films
2 films
