The movie, adapted from Charles Sellier Jr.’s book, was an unexpected success. Despite its modest budget of $165,000, it grossed nearly $30 million at the box office. This remarkable achievement prompted the development of a TV series adaptation, featuring Haggerty reprising his role as the wilderness-loving guardian.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” struck a chord with viewers due to its warm and sincere tone. It followed the story of a man falsely accused of murder who finds solace in the wilderness, forms bonds with animals, and adopts an orphaned bear. As John Leonard of The New York Times accurately pointed out in his review, the show “warms the heart,” blending elements of connecting with nature and stirring emotions.
Haggerty’s portrayal of Grizzly Adams earned him the admiration of fans and even a People’s Choice Award in 1978 for being the most popular actor in a new series. The show’s success also spawned sequels like “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” in 1982.
The movie, based on Charles Sellier Jr.’s novel, unexpectedly became a hit. Despite being made with only $165,000, it earned nearly $30 million at the box office. This success led to a TV series adaptation, with Haggerty reprising his role as the nature-loving guardian of the wilderness.
“The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” connected with audiences due to its warm and heartfelt tone. It told the story of a man wrongly accused of murder finding solace in the woods, forming bonds with animals, and adopting an orphaned bear. John Leonard of The New York Times aptly described the show as “warming the heart,” blending themes of nature appreciation with emotional storytelling.
Haggerty’s portrayal of Grizzly Adams earned him fans’ adoration and a People’s Choice Award in 1978 for the most popular actor in a new series. The show’s success spawned sequels like “Legend of the Wild” in 1978 and “The Capture of Grizzly Adams” in 1982.
However, Haggerty faced challenges in his personal life. Born Daniel Francis Haggerty on November 19, 1942, in Los Angeles, he endured a difficult childhood following his parents’ separation when he was three. Despite escaping military school multiple times, he eventually settled with his actor-father in Burbank.
In his early career, Haggerty appeared in various films, including “Muscle Beach Party” in 1964 and had a role in the iconic “Easy Rider” as a member of a hippie commune. He fully embraced his love for nature, residing on a small ranch in Malibu Canyon among tamed and rescued wild animals. This unique lifestyle led to work as an animal trainer and stuntman for TV series like “Tarzan” and “Daktari.”
Throughout his life, Haggerty continued taking roles that highlighted his passion for wildlife and the outdoors. From movies like “Where the North Wind Blows” in 1974 to “Grizzly Mountain” in 1997, he consistently portrayed characters reminiscent of Grizzly Adams. He also ventured into horror films, appearing in movies such as “Terror Night” in 1987 and “Elves” in 1989.
Despite his success, Haggerty faced setbacks. In 1985, he served a 90-day jail sentence for selling cocaine to undercover police officers. Additionally, he suffered a tragic accident in 1977 when a patron accidentally set his famous beard on fire in a restaurant, causing severe burns to his arms. Remarkably, Haggerty used his knowledge of animal healing to recover quickly.
Even in his passing, Dan Haggerty will forever remain in our memories as the kind-hearted mountain man who brought happiness and comfort to our screens. His portrayal of Grizzly Adams and his deep affection for nature will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Dan Haggerty leaves behind a lasting legacy survived by his children Megan, Tracy, Dylan, Cody, and Don. His influence will continue to resonate and inspire future generations.
