Dick Van Patten

Birth Name:

Richard Vincent Van Patten

Birth Place:

New York City, New York, United States

Profession

Actor

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
Co-founded the dog and cat food brand Natural Balance
Published the autobiography "Eighty Is Not Enough" in 2009
Was featured in the Weird Al Yankovic "Smells Like Nirvana" music video

Fast Facts