Introduction
Don Taylor was an American actor, director, and certified public accountant (CPA). He was born on December 13, 1920, in Freeport, Pennsylvania, and died on December 29, 1998, in Los Angeles, California. Taylor was a multi-talented individual who excelled in various fields, including the entertainment industry and finance. He is best known for his work as a director and actor in Hollywood movies and television shows. In this blog post, we will explore Don Taylor’s life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Don Taylor’s Childhood and Education
Don Taylor was born to a middle-class family in Freeport, Pennsylvania. His parents were both teachers, and they encouraged him to pursue his interests in the arts and sciences. Taylor attended Carnegie Mellon University, where he majored in drama and accounting. He was an excellent student who excelled in both fields, and he graduated with honors.
Don Taylor’s Early Career in Hollywood
After graduation, Don Taylor moved to Hollywood to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. He landed his first role in the 1942 movie, “Flight Lieutenant,” and went on to appear in several other films, including “The Flying Tigers,” “Bataan,” and “The Human Comedy.” Taylor’s acting career was interrupted by World War II, and he served in the U.S. Navy as a lieutenant. After the war, he returned to Hollywood and resumed his acting career.
Directorial Career
Don Taylor’s Transition to Directing
In the 1950s, Don Taylor began to transition from acting to directing. He directed several episodes of popular television shows, including “The Twilight Zone,” “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” and “The Fugitive.” Taylor’s directorial skills were highly regarded, and he was soon offered the opportunity to direct feature films.
Don Taylor’s Directorial Successes
Don Taylor directed several successful movies, including “Escape from the Planet of the Apes,” “Tom Sawyer,” and “Damien: Omen II.” His movies were known for their strong storytelling, compelling characters, and innovative cinematography. Taylor’s directorial career spanned over two decades, and he was highly respected in the industry.
Legacy
Don Taylor’s Impact on Hollywood
Don Taylor’s contributions to the entertainment industry were significant. He was a talented actor and director who brought his unique vision and creativity to every project he worked on. Taylor’s movies and television shows continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world, and his legacy lives on.
Don Taylor’s Influence on Finance
Don Taylor’s background in accounting and finance was also significant. He was a certified public accountant (CPA) who used his financial expertise to manage his own finances and investments. Taylor’s success in both the entertainment industry and finance serves as an inspiration to others who aspire to pursue multiple careers.
Conclusion
Don Taylor was a multi-talented individual who made significant contributions to both the entertainment industry and finance. He was a gifted actor and director who brought his unique vision and creativity to every project he worked on. Taylor’s legacy lives on, and he continues to be remembered as a talented and versatile artist.
FAQ
Who is Don Taylor?
Don Taylor was a multi-talented individual who worked as an actor, director, and CPA. He was born on December 13, 1920, in Freeport, Pennsylvania, and passed away on December 29, 1998, in Los Angeles, California.
What were some of Don Taylor’s most famous roles as an actor?
Don Taylor appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his most famous roles include playing Norman in “Father of the Bride” (1950), playing Johnny in “Stalag 17” (1953), and playing Dr. Ben Mizer in “The Naked City” (1958).
What were some of Don Taylor’s most famous films as a director?
Don Taylor directed several films throughout his career, including “Escape from the Planet of the Apes” (1971), “The Island of Dr. Moreau” (1977), and “Damien: Omen II” (1978).
How did Don Taylor become a CPA?
Don Taylor earned a degree in accounting from Penn State University and worked as a CPA before pursuing his career in the entertainment industry.
Did Don Taylor receive any awards for his work?
Yes, Don Taylor received several awards for his work in the entertainment industry. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for the film “The Naked City” (1948) and won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series for the television show “The Fugitive” (1963).
