Robert Conrad Biography

Fast Facts

• Started out performing on stage with bandleaders Johnny Gilbert and Jim Redd at hotels in Chicago
• The mystery series "Hawaiian Eye" was his first big break
• Worked as a delivery boy for a dairy, as a dock hand for consolidated shipping and at a Skokie candy factory to support his family while singing on the side
• Best known for his role on "The Wild Wild West․"
• His roles often capitalized on his physicality and tough demeanor
• Gave an address at the 2004 Republican National Convention
• His part in "Pasquinel" almost went to Robert Blake, then was offered to Charles Bronson before he got the role at the last minute
• Convinced NBC to bring back "Baa Baa Black Sheep" after it was cancelled under the new name "Black Sheep Squadron․"
• Originally earned $250 per week for his starring role in "Hawaiian Eye," eventually earning a raise that brought him up to $315 per week
• Starred in a series of Eveready battery commercials in which he dared viewers to try to knock a battery off of his shoulder