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Last Surviving Member of TV's Famous Nelson Family Dies
By Jessie L. De La O/Special to LAist
Actor, director and producer David Nelson of TV’s “The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet” passed away on Tuesday due to complications from colon cancer. He was 74.
Nelson was the last surviving member of the famous TV family, who along with younger brother Rick (also known as “Ricky”) and parents Ozzie and Harriet, starred in “The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet,” which ran on ABC from 1952 to 1966. On-screen, the wholesome Nelsons personified the idealistic American family of the 1950s. Many storylines in the show actually revolved around the daily lives of the Nelson Family.
He also went on to produce and direct a few episodes of “The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet,” as well as the TV comedy series “Ozzie’s Girls.” Nelson had roles in films like “Peyton Place,” “The Big Circus” and “Love and Kisses.” His last role was in the 1990 film “Cry-Baby.” He continued to produce and act in his later years, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1996.
Nelson is survived by his wife, Yvonne; sons Danny, James, John and Eric; daughter Teri; and seven grandchildren.
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