About 80 years ago, Earl Holliman was guiding moviegoers to their seats through the dark aisles of a theater in Shreveport, Louisiana. However, he aspired to be on the big screen himself.
Early Aspirations and Struggles
Born in 1928, Earl Holliman always dreamed of Hollywood. At 14, he earned 25 cents per hour as an usher at Shreveport’s Strand Theater. Saving his money, he hitchhiked to Hollywood at 15, hoping to make it big. He recalls walking around Grauman’s Chinese Theater in dark sunglasses, trying to fit in. Unfortunately, his initial attempts to find a job were unsuccessful, and he returned home to finish high school.
Military Service and a Second Chance
After graduation, Holliman served in the Navy and attended radio communications school in Los Angeles. During shore leave, he frequented the Hollywood Canteen, meeting future colleagues like Roddy McDowall. Later, he joined the Pasadena Playhouse and landed a small role in the 1953 film “Scared Stiff” with Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin.
Overcoming Rejection
Despite his talent, Hollywood was tough on Holliman. He was often told, “you just don’t look the part.” Struggling to fit in, he was neither considered handsome enough for leading roles nor distinctive enough for character roles. Determined, Holliman went to Paramount Studio’s barber shop for a makeover.
A Career-Making Haircut
Holliman describes his transformation: “They cut my hair about a quarter of an inch long and in the front it laid down like bangs…with my big ears, my broken nose, my two front teeth, my little eyes and my funny-looking haircut, I was suddenly a character actor.” This new look landed him a role in “The Girls of Pleasure Island.”
Rise to Stardom
Holliman’s breakthrough came with his Golden Globe-winning performance in 1956’s “The Rainmaker,” alongside Katharine Hepburn and Burt Lancaster. He considers it his favorite film, marking a significant turning point in his career. Over the years, he starred with legends like John Wayne, Dean Martin, Kirk Douglas, and Rock Hudson.
Television Success
From 1974 to 1978, Holliman starred as Sergeant Bill Crowley in the TV series “Police Woman” with Angie Dickinson. He describes their on-screen chemistry fondly, acknowledging their occasional disagreements but noting the warmth and protective nature of their relationship.
Later Roles and Retirement
After appearances in TV series like “The Twilight Zone” and “Delta,” and films including “Bad City Blues” (1999) and “The Perfect Tenant” (2000), Holliman retired from acting. He earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1977.
Animal Advocacy
Post-retirement, Holliman dedicated himself to animal rights. He has cared for a variety of animals, including a blind possum, injured doves, and mauled cats. He even feeds about 500 pigeons daily, likening his property to a “pigeon McDonald’s.”
For 25 years, Holliman served as the president of Actors and Others for Animals, an organization supported by celebrities like the late Betty White, Lily Tomlin, Valerie Bertinelli, and Wendie Malick.
Legacy
Earl Holliman’s journey from a theater usher to a Hollywood star and animal advocate is a testament to his resilience and compassion. His story continues to inspire many in the entertainment industry and beyond.