Introduction
Claude Akins was an American actor best known for his roles in western and crime dramas. He was born on May 25, 1926, in Nelson, Georgia, and died on January 27, 1994, in Altadena, California. Akins appeared in over 200 films and television shows during his career, including memorable roles in “Rio Bravo,” “Inherit the Wind,” and “The Caine Mutiny.”
Claude Akins’ Family
Claude Akins’ Children
Claude Akins was married twice and had three children. His first wife was Thelma Lee Storey, and they had two children together: Claude Marion Akins Jr. and Wendy Akins. His second wife was Therese Fairfield, and they had one child together: Michele Akins. All three of his children followed in their father’s footsteps and pursued careers in the entertainment industry.
Claude Akins’ Native American Heritage
Although Claude Akins was born in Georgia, he was of Native American descent. His mother was part Cherokee, and his father was part Muscogee Creek. Akins was proud of his heritage and often played Native American characters in his films and television shows, including “The Comancheros” and “The Texan.”
Claude Akins’ Career
Claude Akins’ Movies
Claude Akins appeared in numerous films throughout his career, including “Rio Bravo,” “Inherit the Wind,” “The Caine Mutiny,” and “The Sea Chase.” He also had supporting roles in several popular films, such as “From Here to Eternity” and “The Devil’s Brigade.”
Claude Akins’ Television Shows
Akins was also a prolific television actor, appearing in over 150 television shows during his career. He had a recurring role on “B.J. and the Bear” and appeared in episodes of “Gunsmoke,” “The Twilight Zone,” “The Rifleman,” and “The Big Valley,” among others.
Claude Akins’ Cause of Death
Claude Akins’ Health Problems
In the early 1990s, Claude Akins began experiencing health problems. He suffered a heart attack in 1991 and had a pacemaker implanted. He also had a stroke in 1993, which left him partially paralyzed.
Claude Akins’ Death
Claude Akins died on January 27, 1994, at the age of 67. The cause of death was cancer, which had spread to his lungs and brain. Akins had been receiving treatment for lung cancer, but it had metastasized to other parts of his body.
Conclusion
Claude Akins was a talented actor who appeared in numerous films and television shows during his career. He was also a proud Native American and had a family that followed in his footsteps. Although he faced health problems in his later years, Akins continued to work until his death in 1994.
