Ralph Taeger was a talented and versatile actor who starred in several television series in the 1960s, such as Klondike, Acapulco, and Hondo. He also appeared in some movies, such as X-15, The Carpetbaggers, and The Delta Factor. However, his acting career was cut short by a long illness that eventually claimed his life in 2015. So what was the actual cause of death of Ralph Taeger? And what was his life story? In this article, we will explore some fascinating facts about the late actor and his legacy.
Early Life and Career
Ralph Taeger was born on July 30, 1936, in Richmond Hill, Queens, to German-speaking parents. He grew up with a passion for baseball and played on a farm team for the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, he had to give up his dream of becoming a professional baseball player due to knee injuries. He then turned his attention to acting and enrolled at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. He also worked as a model to support himself.
Taeger’s first break came when he landed a major role in a production at the Beverly Hills Playhouse. He impressed an MGM official so much that he was offered a contract with the studio. He then appeared in some episodes of Highway Patrol and Manhunt before getting his first lead role in Klondike, a western adventure series set in the Alaskan gold rush. He played Mike Halliday, a rugged prospector who faced various challenges and dangers.
Rise to Fame
Taeger’s popularity increased when he starred in two more television series: Acapulco and Hondo. In Acapulco, he played Patrick Malone, a Korean War veteran who worked as a security agent for a lawyer (played by Telly Savalas). He teamed up with James Coburn, who also co-starred with him in Klondike. In Hondo, he played the title role of Hondo Lane, a cavalry scout in the Arizona Territory of the 1870s. He was based on the character created by John Wayne in the 1953 movie of the same name. He was accompanied by Noah Beery Jr., who played his sidekick.
Taeger also made some guest appearances on other shows, such as The Man from U.N.C.L.E., The Virginian, and Ironside. He also acted in some movies, such as X-15 (1961), The Carpetbaggers (1964), Stage to Thunder Rock (1964), A House Is Not a Home (1964), The Delta Factor (1970), and The Hostage Heart (1977). He was praised for his charisma, versatility, and good looks.
Personal Life and Death
Taeger married Linda Jarrett in 1967 and had a son named Richard. They moved to Placerville, California, where they operated a firewood business called Taeger’s Firewood Company. Taeger was devoted to his wife and family and stayed away from the Hollywood limelight. He was also known for being outspoken and honest, which sometimes caused him trouble with the industry.
Taeger suffered from a long illness that eventually led to his death on March 11, 2015. He was 78 years old. He died at Marshall Medical Center in Placerville, California. The official cause of death was not disclosed, but according to Hollywood Reporter, it was related to a disease. He was survived by his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.
Legacy and Tribute
Ralph Taeger left behind a legacy of memorable performances and roles that entertained millions of viewers. He was one of the stars of the golden age of television who brought charisma and charm to the screen. He was also a loving husband and father who valued his family above all else.
Taeger’s fans and friends paid tribute to him after his death. They remembered him as a talented actor, a kind person, and a loyal friend. They also expressed their condolences to his family and wished them peace and comfort.
Ralph Taeger will always be remembered as one of the legends of television who made an impact on the industry and the audience. His work will continue to inspire generations of actors and fans alike.
