Remembering Michael Landon October 31, 1936 - July 1, 1991

Michael Landon was an American actor, writer, director, and producer.  He was born Eugene Maurice Orowitz.  Landon is best remembered for his role as Little Joe on the television series "Bonanza" that ran from 1959-73.  Other roles include Charles Ingalls in "Little House in the Prairie," Jonathan Smith in "Highway To Heaven.

Landon was an outstanding javelin thrower in high school that landed him a scholarship to the University of Southern California.  He was also a singer having recorded a single 45 record with his single "Gimme a Little Kiss (Will Ya Huh)" during the height of his notoriety  for his role in the film "I Was A Teenage Werewolf."

Michael Landon appeared on the cover of the TV Guide 22 times (second only to Lucille Ball). Landon produced, wrote, and directed the series "Father Murphy" featuring football player and actor, Merlin Olsen.

Michael wrote and directed a biographical movie called "The Loneliest Runner" that was nominated for two Emmy Awards. The movie dealt with Landon's childhood problem of bedwetting.

He co-produced the true story tv movie "Love Is Forever" and directed "Sam's Son"

Michael Landon wrote and directed the popular television movie "Where Pigeons Go to Die"
Michael suffered from pancreatic cancer that eventually ended his life on July 1, 1991 at the age of 54.

Following Michael's funeral, he was laid to rest in a mausoleum in Hillside Memorial Park in Culver City, California.