Terry Wilson, a renowned actor and stuntman, was born on September 3, 1923, in Huntington Park, California. Prior to pursuing his passion for acting, Wilson was a standout football player in his high school days and initially planned to become a veterinarian, attending California Polytechnic School on a football scholarship.
However, Wilson's plans took a different turn when he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1943 and served until 1946. Following his tour of duty, he was handpicked by Warner Brothers from a group of athletes to receive training in the stunt profession, specializing in fistfights and work with horses.
Throughout his illustrious career, Wilson doubled for notable actors such as John Wayne, Ward Bond, and Forrest Tucker, solidifying his reputation as a skilled stuntman. His work in Westerns spanned several decades, and he also found success alongside his fellow stuntman and friend Frank McGrath on the rodeo circuit, even performing at prison rodeos.
After retiring from the film industry, Wilson went on to run a location ranch in Simi Valley, California, and served as the vice president of a construction firm in Southern California. Wilson's life came full circle when he passed away at the age of 75 on March 30, 1999. He left behind his loving wife, Mary Ann Wilson, and their three children.
