Dennis Weaver

William Dennis Weaver was an American actor who was best known for his work in television. Weavers two most notable roles were as Marshal Matt Dillons trusty helper Chester Goode on the CBS western Gunsmoke and as Deputy Marshal Sam McCloud on the NBC police drama McCloud. He appeared in the 1971 television film Duel, the first film of director Steven Spielberg. He is also remembered for his role as the twitchy motel attendant in Orson Welless film Touch of Evil .

Weaver was born in Joplin, Missouri, the son of Walter Weaver and his wife Lenna Prather. His father was of English, Irish, Scottish, Cherokee, and Osage ancestry. Weaver wanted to be an actor from childhood. He lived in Shreveport Louisiana for several years, and for a short time in Manteca, California. He studied at Joplin Junior College, now Missouri Southern State University, then transferred to the University of Oklahoma at Norman, where he studied drama and was a track star, setting records in several events. During World War II he served as a pilot in the United States Navy. After the war, he married Gerry Stowell, with whom he had three children. Weaver tried out for the 1948 U.S. Olympic team in the decathlon, finishing sixth behind 17yearold high school track star Bob Mathias. However, only the top three finishers were selected. Weaver later commented, I did so poorly , I decided to160... stay in New York and try acting.

Source: Wikipedia