Dick Van Patten Biography

Fast Facts

• In 2008, he was awarded a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars
• Father of fellow actors Nels, James and Vincent Van Patten, brother of director Timothy Van Patten and uncle of actress Talia Balsam
• Acting since a young age, he made his Broadway debut in the play "Tapestry in Gray" when he was 7 years old
• Made his screen acting debut in a recurring role in the TV series "Mama," although he was replaced by James Dean when he was called into the military
• Quote: "Before 'Eight Is Enough,' there was 'Father Knows Best,' all goody, goody, goody․ On 'Eight Is Enough,' we dealt with real problems․"
• Best known for playing Tom Bradford in "Eight Is Enough" and King Roland in "Spaceballs․"
• In addition to his work in television and films, he appeared in more than 600 radio shows during his career
• Appeared in a roller-disco themed episode of "CHiPs" as part of a fundraiser for Actors and Others for Animals
• Published the autobiography "Eighty Is Not Enough" in 2009
• Was featured in the Weird Al Yankovic "Smells Like Nirvana" music video
• Co-founded the dog and cat food brand Natural Balance