Victor French was an American actor, known for his impressive work on television, film, and theater. Born on December 4, 1934, in Santa Barbara, California, he started his acting career in the late 1950s. French served in the United States Marine Corps and studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse. He made his acting debut in 1959 with the TV series ‘Manhunt’ and went on to appear in numerous TV shows and films throughout his career.
One of the most notable roles of Victor French’s career was his portrayal of Isaiah Edwards in the hit TV series ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ The show, based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s book series, aired from 1974 to 1983 and became a cultural phenomenon. French appeared in 57 episodes of the series as a friend of the Ingalls family and a surrogate father to the character of Laura. He quickly became a fan favorite due to his natural charm and charisma, and his character’s kindness and sense of humor.
French’s performance in ‘Little House on the Prairie’ earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1979. His chemistry with Michael Landon, who played Charles Ingalls, was particularly memorable, and the two actors developed a close friendship that lasted until French’s death. He left the show after several times throughout the run, but returned due to his immense popularity, both as the actor and the character he portrayed.
Apart from ‘Little House on the Prairie,’ French appeared in several other popular TV shows, including ‘Gunsmoke,’ ‘Bonanza,’ ‘Highway to Heaven,’ and ‘Matlock.’ He also appeared in several films, including ‘The Magnificent Seven Ride!’ and ‘An Officer and a Gentleman.’ French was known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from tough cowboys to gentle fathers.
Victor French passed away on June 15, 1989, at the age of 54 due to lung cancer. His contributions to the entertainment industry are still remembered today, and his legacy continues to inspire many young actors. He will always be remembered as a talented and versatile actor who brought joy and laughter to millions of viewers worldwide, especially through his unforgettable portrayal of Isaiah Edwards in ‘Little House on the Prairie.’
