Wilford Brimley

Wilford Brimley, born as Anthony Wilford Brimley, was an American actor renowned for his roles in popular films like The China Syndrome (1979), The Thing (1982), Tender Mercies (1983), The Natural (1984), and Cocoon (1985). He started his career in the late 1960s as a stuntman and extra in Western films. Known for playing characters much older than his age, Brimley was the face of American television commercials for the Quaker Oats Company and also promoted diabetes education via commercials for Liberty Medical, becoming an Internet meme in the process. Before his acting career, Brimley had served in the U.S. Marine Corps, worked as a cowboy and even served as a bodyguard for businessman Howard Hughes. His breakthrough came with the popular 1970s television series The Waltons. Aside from his film and TV legacy, he was also known for his singing and harmonica playing, bringing warmth and depth to jazz and country music.

Brimley was born on September 27, 1934, in Salt Lake City, the son of Lola and real estate broker Wilford Brimley. He dropped out of high school at 14 and joined the Marines in 1953. After his military service, Brimley began working in film and television in the 1960s at the behest of his close friend, fellow actor Robert Duvall. Despite never undergoing formal acting training, Brimley made a name of himself in Hollywood with his strong performances and unique style. Additionally, Brimley was a fierce advocate for individual rights and had an interest in playing poker. After being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1979, he dedicated himself to raising awareness about the disease. Brimley passed away at the age of 85 on August 1, 2020, due to a kidney condition.