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As
a teenager, Eugene Orowitz (aka Michael Landon) discovered he
had a talent for javelin throwing. He received a scholarship
to USC, though a torn ligament put an end to his athletic career.
He soon began taking parts in B-Movies, eventually landing the
starring role in I Was A Teenage Werewolf. At age 21,
he was cast as Joseph "Little Joe" Cartwright, and became a
TV star as well as writing and directing episodes of Bonanza
in the later seasons. With his varied talents, Landon
later created the hugely successful series Little House
On the Prairie. After eight years on the Prairie, Landon
moved on to Highway to Heaven, which lasted five seasons.
Landon developed a strong reputation for wholesome and moral
programming, though tabloids delighted in reporting of his
tumultuous private life.
In 1991, Landon was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and
three months later he passed away. He left behind three ex-wives
and nine children as well as a lasting legacy of fine performances
and memorable roles.
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