George "Spanky" McFarland was an American actor most remembered as being a childhood star in the "Our Gang" series during the 1930's-40's and was later syndicated to television as The Little Rascals.
His acting career began in response to a trade magazine advertisement by Hal Roach Studios seeking photographs of "cute kids". George's aunt responded to the ad and George was asked to do a screen test. The rest is history.
"Spanky" became the leader of "Our Gang" and became a Hollywood star. When his acting career discontinued at the age of 14, Spanky served in the US Air Force. He had numerous jobs as a young adult including work at a soft drink plant, a hamburger stand, and popsicle factory. He also made appearances including a children's show. He later sold wine and operated a restaurant and night club and from time to time made television appearances and speaking engagements. His final television appearance was in 1993 having played himself in an episode of the television sitcom, "Cheers"
McFarland was one of only two of the "Our Gang" actors to received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
He collapsed on June 30, 1993 while getting dressed and was pronounced dead in Baylor University Medical School as the result of a cardiac arrest. He was 64 years old. His memorial service was held at the First United Methodist Church in Ft. Worth. Following cremation, he was laid to rest in the Texas State Cemetery in Austin.
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