Early Life and Career
Don Stroud was born on September 1, 1943, in Honolulu, Hawaii. His parents were both entertainers, and he grew up surrounded by the world of show business. Stroud began his acting career in the 1960s, appearing in a number of popular TV shows such as “The Virginian,” “Bonanza,” and “Hawaii Five-O.”
He also appeared in several movies during this time, including “Coogan’s Bluff” and “Madigan.” Stroud’s rugged good looks and tough-guy persona made him a popular choice for action movies and westerns. He quickly became a sought-after character actor and appeared in over 100 films and TV shows throughout his career.
The Face Injury that Shaped His Career
In 1973, Stroud was involved in a serious motorcycle accident that left him with a broken jaw and facial injuries. He underwent several surgeries to reconstruct his face, but the accident left him with a distinctive scar and a slightly crooked smile.
Despite the injury, Stroud continued to work in Hollywood and even found that it helped to make him stand out as an actor. He often played tough, intimidating characters, and the scar on his face only added to his tough-guy image. Stroud once said that the accident “gave me a career.”
Notable Movies
Stroud appeared in many popular movies throughout his career, including “The Buddy Holly Story,” “The Amityville Horror,” and “License to Kill.” He also appeared in several westerns, such as “Django Unchained” and “The Outlaw Josey Wales.”
One of his most memorable roles was in the 1973 movie “The Getaway,” where he played the sadistic hitman, Jack Beynon. Stroud’s performance in the film was praised by critics, and it helped to establish him as a formidable character actor.
Personal Life
Stroud was married twice and had four children. He was also an accomplished musician and songwriter, and he often performed in clubs and bars in his spare time.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Stroud remained down-to-earth and was known for his friendly and approachable demeanor. He was also a big supporter of the military and often visited troops overseas to show his appreciation for their service.
Net Worth
As of 2020, Don Stroud’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million. He earned most of his wealth through his successful acting career, which spanned over five decades.
Stroud’s legacy as a tough-guy character actor will always be remembered, and his contributions to the world of entertainment will continue to inspire future generations of actors.
