FORGOTTEN FILMS: TV TRANSITION

Though typically overshadowed by Hollywood's A-list, there were respectable performances by numerous actors and actresses who never became major film stars. A common occurrence was their transition to the new medium of television, often becoming familiar faces in homes across America. These periodic posts offer insight into their transition.

Jack Hogan: Richard Roland Benson Jr. (1929-)

Jack Hogan possessed an intensity and cockiness in many of his roles whether in western attire or a three-piece suit. The 5’ 9” actor’s potential sent him to television after only five films. He had starring roles in the loosely-based bio, The Bonnie Parker Story, 1958, the forgettable Paratroop Command, 1959 and The Legend of Tom Dooley, 1959, with the title character going to Michael Landon. The Cat Burglar, 1961, was Hogan’s final film and he shines in the title role. His mannerisms and physical appearance give the impression we are looking at a young James Caan. Hogan’s periodic voice-overs in the film were convincing indicating an understanding of voice acting and phrasing. Aside from his excellent performance, the low-budget film resulted in some unintentionally funny moments and an amateur female co-star.

Numerous television guest-starring roles were already a part of Hogan’s resumé. The medical anthology series, Dr. Christian, 1956, was his earliest recurring role. A television staple at the time, the western, whether it was Tombstone Territory, 1957, Have Gun--Will Travel, 1958 or Bat Masterson, 1959, offered Hogan some early saddle time. His most visible role was as the quick-tempered, womanizer Pvt. Kirby, in the 1962 ABC hit series, Combat!. Upon the show’s cancellation, Hogan was quickly cast in another combat role in Garrison’s Gorillas, 1968.

He had solo appearances on numerous series until his on-going appearances on Adam-12, 1968, then in the lesser-known, Sierra (1974). Hogan could be seen frequently in various roles on Hawaii Five-O between 1973-76. Though he made two appearances on CBS’ Magnum, P.I., 1980, his unseen credit as a casting director doubled his tenure. His final series with recurring appearances was the twelve-episode Berrenger’s, 1985, Jake and The Fatman, 1989 and the forgettable Raven, 1992.

Note: Born in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Hogan was briefly an architecture student before his four-year stint serving in the Armed Forces. Returning to civilian life he studied drama at the Pasadena Playhouse and later moved to New York City to study at the American Theatre Wing. For the most part, a freelance actor and perhaps realizing acting can be fleeting, his interests also included painting, fishing, reading and poetry.