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Robert Preston

American actor (1918-1987).

Born June 8th, 1918 in Massachusetts.

Died March 21st, 1987 at 68 years old in Montecito (lung cancer).

Occupations
film actor, singer, stage actor, television actor

Robert Preston, 68, passed away on March 21, 1987. He was an American actor best known for his starring role as Professor Harold Hill in the film version of the popular musical The Music Man. Preston began his career on Broadway with credits that included Shine On, Harvest Moon and in a production of The Moon is Blue. His big break came in 1957 when he was cast in the original production of The Music Man, for which he earned a Tony Award. In 1962, Preston starred in the film adaptation of The Music Man and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. His other film credits included the cult classics Hot Lead and Cold Feet and Victor/Victoria. Preston’s television work was equally impressive, appearing in shows such as Rawhide, The Wild Wild West, Fantasy Island and Hart to Hart. He enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in the 1980s with memorable guest roles in M*A*S*H, Newhart, Cheers and Taxi. In 1983, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Preston is survived by his wife, Violet, and their two sons, Thomas and Christopher. His legacy as one of the most beloved and iconic musical comedy stars of all time will live on.

It is nothing to die. It is frightful not to live. Victor Hugo