Pernell Elvin Roberts (May 18, 1928 – January 24, 2010) was an American television actor and singer. He was best known for his roles as Ben Cartwright's eldest son, Adam Cartwright, on the western series Bonanza (a role he played from 1959 to 1965), and as chief surgeon, Dr. John MacIntyre, the title character on Trapper John, M.D. (1979-1986).
Born: Pernell Elvin Roberts Waycross, Georgia, U.S.
Died: Malibu, California, U.S.
He came to prominence playing Ben Cartwright's urbane eldest son, Adam, in the Western television series Bonanza. Despite the show’s success, he left after the sixth season in 1965 due to disagreements with the writers and a desire to return to legitimate theatre.
He was known for his activism, which included participation in the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, and pressuring NBC to refrain from hiring whites to portray minority characters.
Death of Pernel Roberts
Roberts died of cancer at his home in Malibu, California on January 24, 2010, aged 81
Pernell Roberts
Re: Pernell Roberts of 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, MD' dies 81
I am very sorry to hear of the death of Pernell Roberts. I watch the show Bananza and also enjoyed him in Trapper John MD. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Lana
Re: Pernell Roberts of 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, MD' dies 81
Man, what a shock to hear this.
I loved the series of Bonanza and watched it growing up as a child in North Carolina. My heart felt condolences go out to his family and friends. Now they are all in heaven together, Loren Green, Dan Blocker and Michael Landon!
May god Bless Pernell Roberts in his new life with Jesus Christ out lord and Savoir!
Re: Pernell Roberts of 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, MD' dies 81
I never actually got the chance to meet him, he would send letters apologizing for his absence to family reunions, but we always enjoyed receiving the post cards and letters, he was my senior by 44 years, but it was neat knowing when you saw a show on T.V. and if he was in it we could brag, he was my great grandmothers sisters son
Re: Pernell Roberts of 'Bonanza' and 'Trapper John, MD' dies 81
cindy Pekarek It is very sad news to hear of the death Pernell Roberts. This is the end of the stars from Bonanza.I would like to send out my prayers to the friends fans and decendants of Peranell Roberts. Cindy
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