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Howard McNear Biography

Birth Name:Howard Terbell McNear

Birth Place:Los Angeles, California, United States

Profession Actor, Soundtrack

Fast Facts

  • Originated the role of Doc Charles Adams on CBS Radio's "Gunsmoke" in 1952 and would remain with the program for nine years, all while launching his film career in 1953
  • McNear studied at the Oatman School of Theater
  • After suffering a massive stroke while appearing on "The Andy Griffith Show" in the mid-60s, he would eventually die from complications stemming from the event in 1969 at only 63-years-old
  • Began a career in entertainment as a radio personality for the "Gunsmoke" program before eventually signing on to "The Andy Griffith Show" in the 1960s