Lonny Chapman

**Lon Leonard Chapman** (October 1, 1920 – October 12, 2007), better known as Lonny Chapman, was an acclaimed American actor renowned for his numerous guest star appearances on various television drama series. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Chapman graduated from Joplin High School and Joplin Junior College, later receiving a BFA degree from the University of Oklahoma at Norman. His acting career began in earnest when he moved to New York City, where he secured his first acting role of 'Turk' in _Come Back, Little Sheba_. Chapman demonstrated a lasting presence in the acting domain with a career spanning from 1951 to 2001. His first television performance came in 1951 with a role on the series Starlight Theatre. Aside from making significant appearances on CBS series' The Defenders and For the People, he also guest-starred or supported roles in several other notable series like Gunsmoke, The A-Team and NYPD Blue. Not limited to the small screen, Chapman's film career was equally significant, kicking off with a role in the 1955 film _Young at Heart_. Other memorable roles came in films like _East of Eden_ (1955), _Norma Rae_ (1979), and _Reindeer Games_ (2000). Chapman also made his mark on stage, debuting in Chicago, and later making several Broadway and Off-Broadway appearances. He was also a playwright, penning notable works such as _The Buffalo Skinner_ and _Cry of the Raindrop_.