RIP: Hugh O’Brian, Star of TV’s Wyatt Earp Series, Has Died

Actor Hugh O’Brian died peacefully at his Beverly Hills home on the morning of September 5, 2016. From 1955 to 1961, O’Brian was the popular star of the TV series, “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp.” The show’s theme song was just as popular, and all the kids knew the Wyatt Earp theme song. (Some of the boys would pretend to burp instead of singing Earp). Lots of boys had Wyatt Earp badges and cap guns. For fans of the show, young or old, Hugh O’Brian was the quintessential Wyatt Earp.

But there was much more to the actor than just the Wyatt Earp series and his most well known movie roles.

He was personally inspired by Dr. Albert Schweitzer to start HOBY. The organization honored him today, stating: “Hugh’s belief in the potential of every human being and his commitment to helping the youth of the world become major contributors to society is his lasting legacy. He founded Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership in 1958 based on that belief, and today more than 470,000 HOBY alumni are better people, making a difference in the lives of others, thanks to the vision and passion of Hugh O’Brian…. Hugh’s impact on young leaders and on the world cannot be understated. Like the legendary lawman he was so proud of playing, Hugh was a hero. He was our hero and we will miss him very much.” Many grateful messages are being left to thank HOBY’s founder under the hashtag #becauseofHugh. What a beautiful and meaningful legacy.

Click here for more on Hugh O’Brian’s life on the Hollywood Reporter.