Dave Young's Early Life and Career
Dave Young made his first appearance on camera at the tender age of 14 in Douglas Fairbanks's iconic film, Robin Hood (1922). He then went on to become the National A.A.U. tumbling champion in 1925 and 1926, showcasing his impressive acrobatic skills. Despite his early success, he began taking on bit parts in films, gradually working his way up the ranks.
Breakthrough and Hal Roach Comedies
Young's big break came in 1929 with the film Masked Emotions, which led to a series of Hal Roach comedies. He continued to hone his craft, taking on a variety of roles in many B-westerns throughout the 1930s.
Republic Pictures and Stunt Work
In 1939, Young joined Republic Pictures, where he became one of the three leads in the serial Daredevils of the Red Circle alongside Charles Quigley and Bruce Bennett. During his time at Republic, he met stuntman Yakima Canutt and began doing stunt work, eventually doubling for almost every western lead and even some of the ladies.
Range Busters and Military Service
In 1942, Monogram Pictures signed Young as one of the leads in its Range Busters western series, in which he appeared in three films: Texas to Bataan, Trail Riders, and Haunted Ranch. Shortly after, Young joined the US Army Air Corps, rising to the rank of captain. After his discharge, he returned to Hollywood and focused primarily on stunt work and second-unit directing.
Later Career and Legacy
Young doubled for notable actors such as Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Tony Curtis in their action films, and also worked on various TV series, including The F.B.I., Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok, and many others. In addition to his film work, he was also seen as the old lady in a wheelchair on The Red Skelton Hour in 1951.
Awards and Illness
Dave Young was inducted into the Stuntman's Hall of Fame in 1970, a testament to his impressive career in the stunt industry. Unfortunately, in 1978, he was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, and passed away.
