Lloyd Vernet Bridges, Jr., a renowned actor, embarked on a plethora of land and underwater adventures throughout his illustrious career. Born on January 15, 1913, in San Leandro, California, to Harriet Evelyn (Brown) and Lloyd Vernet Bridges, Sr., who owned a movie theater and operated a hotel business. His father envisioned a future for his son in the legal profession, but Lloyd's interests shifted towards acting during his time at the University of California, Los Angeles.
As a student at UCLA, Lloyd met his future wife, Dorothy Dean Bridges, who was also his classmate and co-star in a romantic play called "March Hares." Following his university education, Lloyd ventured onto the Broadway stage, co-founded an off-Broadway theater, and acted, produced, and directed at the Green Mansions theater in the Catskills.
Lloyd's cinematic debut occurred in 1936, and he subsequently signed a contract with Columbia in 1941. However, his career faced a significant challenge in the early 1950s when allegations surfaced suggesting his involvement with the Communist Party. In response, Lloyd testified before the House Un-American Activities Committee, acknowledging his past party membership while recanting his involvement.
As the television medium gained popularity, Lloyd made a seamless transition, starring in the country's most successful syndicated series, Sea Hunt (1958). Throughout his career, Lloyd remained a dedicated and prolific actor, working tirelessly until the end. He won over new fans with his comedic portrayals in the films Airplane! (1980) and Hot Shots! (1991),as well as their respective sequels.
Lloyd Bridges passed away on March 10, 1998, at the age of 85, due to natural causes, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved and accomplished actor.
