Adam-12, a groundbreaking cop drama of the late 1960s, set the stage for the plethora of police procedural shows that followed. Created by Jack Webb and Robert A. Cinader, the series depicted the daily lives of LAPD officers Pete Malloy and Jim Reed, played by Martin Milner and Kent McCord, respectively. As audiences tuned in week after week, Adam-12 not only entertained but also enlightened viewers about the challenges and triumphs of law enforcement. Its realistic portrayal of police work laid the groundwork for future generations of television cop dramas, including iconic series like Blue Bloods, Chicago P.D., and NYPD Blue.
Lasting for seven seasons and consisting of 174 episodes, Adam-12 became a cultural touchstone, introducing audiences to police procedures and jargon and earning enduring popularity both during its original run and in syndication. However, as time marches on, we must remember and honor the talented individuals who brought Adam-12 to life, recognizing their contributions to the show’s enduring legacy.
Martin Milner: Martin Milner, known for his roles in Route 66 and Adam-12, portrayed the seasoned LAPD officer Pete Malloy. Born on December 28, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, Milner’s journey to stardom began in his teenage years. He landed his breakthrough role in Warner Brothers’ “Life with Father” in 1947. Milner’s association with Jack Webb led to his iconic role in Adam-12, where he showcased his acting prowess until his passing on September 6, 2015, at the age of 83.
Shaaron Claridge: Shaaron Claridge, born Sharon Lee Cooper, was best known for her role as the dispatcher on Adam-12. Throughout the ’60s and ’70s, Claridge lent her voice to various police dispatchers, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. On September 15, 2021, she passed away at the age of 82 due to natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.
William Boyett: William Boyett, born on January 3, 1927, in Akron, Ohio, carved a niche for himself as a law enforcement officer in television series like Adam-12 and Dragnet. His portrayal of Sgt. Mac MacDonald endeared him to audiences, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Boyett’s remarkable career came to an end on December 29, 2004, at the age of 77, attributed to complications from pneumonia and kidney failure.
Fred Stromsoe: Fred Stromsoe, known for his role as Officer Jerry Woods on Adam-12, left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Born on June 15, 1930, in Denver, Colorado, Stromsoe’s contributions extended beyond acting to assistant directing. His untimely demise on September 30, 1994, at the age of 64, speculated to be due to cancer, marked the end of a distinguished career.
Gary Crosby: Gary Crosby, the son of the legendary Bing Crosby, made his mark as Officer Edward ‘Ed’ Wells on Adam-12. With a career spanning radio, film, and television, Crosby’s talent shone through in every performance. Despite his struggles detailed in his memoir “Going My Own Way,” Crosby’s legacy endured until his passing on August 24, 1995, at the age of 62, succumbing to lung cancer.
Claude Johnson: Claude Johnson, known for his role as Officer Brinkman on Adam-12, captivated audiences with his on-screen presence. Despite limited information about his personal life, Johnson’s contributions to the series are remembered fondly. His passing on May 18, 2009, at the age of 71, marked the end of an era in television.
Art Gilmore: Art Gilmore, recognized for his roles in Highway Patrol and Dragnet, graced the screen as Captain Moore and Lt. Val Wangsgard on Adam-12. His extensive career as an announcer and actor solidified his place in Hollywood history. Gilmore’s passing on September 25, 2010, at the age of 98, marked the end of an illustrious career spanning decades.
William Stevens: William Stevens, though lesser-known, contributed to the success of Adam-12 with his portrayal of Officer Walters. Despite the lack of information about his personal life, Stevens’ presence on the show left an indelible mark. While the details of his passing remain unknown, his contributions to the series are remembered with reverence.
In conclusion, as we pay homage to the departed cast members of Adam-12, their contributions to the world of entertainment live on through their timeless performances. Though they may no longer be with us, their legacy continues to resonate with fans of the show, ensuring that they will always be remembered alongside Adam-12’s enduring legacy.
Their dedication, talent, and professionalism not only shaped the landscape of television but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers. As we celebrate the impact of Adam-12, let us also take a moment to reflect on the lives and careers of those who brought its characters to life, forever immortalized in the annals of television history.
