Introduction to the Cast of “Combat!”
“Combat!” was a groundbreaking television series that aired from 1962 to 1967, focusing on the lives of a squad of American soldiers fighting in France during World War II. The show was known for its gritty realism, character development, and moral dilemmas. Over half a century later, fans of the show still reminisce about the powerful performances and wonder what became of the actors who brought these characters to life. In this article, we will explore where the cast of “Combat!” is now, delving into their careers post-show and their lives away from the spotlight.
Main Cast Members of “Combat!”
The main cast of “Combat!” included Vic Morrow as Sergeant Saunders, Rick Jason as Lieutenant Hanley, Pierre Jalbert as Caje, Jack Hogan as Kirby, and Dick Peabody as Littlejohn. These actors became household names during the show’s run, and their portrayals left a lasting impact on television history.
Vic Morrow (Sergeant Saunders)
Vic Morrow’s portrayal of the tough yet compassionate Sergeant Saunders was a defining role in his career. After “Combat!” ended, Morrow continued to act in both film and television. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1982 during the filming of “Twilight Zone: The Movie” when he was killed in a helicopter accident on set. His legacy, however, lives on through his work and his daughter, actress Jennifer Jason Leigh.
Rick Jason (Lieutenant Hanley)
Rick Jason, the charismatic leader of the squad as Lieutenant Hanley, had a successful career in acting both before and after “Combat!” He appeared in numerous TV shows and movies until his retirement. Sadly, Jason passed away in 2000. His memoir, “Scrapbooks of My Mind: A Hollywood Autobiography,” provides a detailed account of his experiences in the entertainment industry.
Pierre Jalbert (Caje)
Pierre Jalbert played the role of Caje, the squad’s reliable and skilled scout. Post-“Combat!”, Jalbert focused on his career as a film editor, a profession he had been involved with even before his acting stint. He passed away in 2014, leaving behind a legacy in both acting and film editing.
Jack Hogan (Kirby)
Jack Hogan, known for his role as the feisty Private Kirby, continued to act in television after “Combat!” ended. He appeared in shows like “Adam-12” and “Jake and the Fatman.” Hogan retired from acting and lived a private life until his passing in 2017.
Dick Peabody (Littlejohn)
The gentle giant Littlejohn was portrayed by Dick Peabody. After the show, Peabody became a successful businessman and columnist. He also made occasional TV appearances before his death in 1999. Peabody’s columns for “VFW Magazine” were well-received and showcased his writing talent.
Supporting Cast and Guest Stars
“Combat!” also featured a talented supporting cast and an array of guest stars who went on to have successful careers in Hollywood. Some of these actors include Robert Duvall, James Caan, and Tom Skerritt, who all appeared in various episodes before becoming stars in their own right.
Life After “Combat!” for the Cast
The end of “Combat!” did not mean the end of the road for its cast members. Many of them continued to work in the entertainment industry, while others found new paths in different fields. Their post-show careers were as varied as their characters on the screen.
Impact of “Combat!” on Television History
“Combat!” is often credited with setting a new standard for war dramas on television. Its influence can be seen in later series that also sought to portray the realities of war and its effects on soldiers. The show’s legacy is evident in the continued interest in the lives of its cast members.
Where Are They Now: A Summary Table
| Actor | Character | Post-“Combat!” Career | Death |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vic Morrow | Sergeant Saunders | Continued acting in film/TV | 1982 |
| Rick Jason | Lieutenant Hanley | Acting, wrote autobiography | 2000 |
| Pierre Jalbert | Caje | Film editing | 2014 |
| Jack Hogan | Kirby | Continued acting in TV | 2017 |
| Dick Peabody | Littlejohn | Businessman, columnist | 1999 |
FAQs About the Cast of “Combat!”
Did any of the “Combat!” cast members serve in the military?
Yes, several cast members of “Combat!” had military experience. Vic Morrow served in the United States Navy, and Rick Jason served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II.
What was the cause of Vic Morrow’s death?
Vic Morrow died in a tragic accident on the set of “Twilight Zone: The Movie” when a helicopter stunt went wrong, causing the aircraft to crash and fatally injure him and two child actors.
Are any of the main cast members of “Combat!” still alive?
As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, all of the main cast members of “Combat!” have passed away.
Did “Combat!” win any awards during its run?
“Combat!” was nominated for several awards during its run, including Emmy Awards for Outstanding Dramatic Series and individual performances.
Has “Combat!” been released on DVD or streaming platforms?
Yes, “Combat!” has been released on DVD, and episodes can also be found on various streaming platforms, allowing new generations to discover the show.
Conclusion
The cast of “Combat!” left an indelible mark on television history with their compelling performances and the show’s groundbreaking approach to storytelling. While the series ended over five decades ago, the interest in the lives and careers of its cast members continues to this day. From Vic Morrow’s tragic death to Rick Jason’s memoirs, each actor’s journey post-“Combat!” is a testament to their enduring legacy. Though they have all passed on, the memories of their performances and the impact of “Combat!” on the television landscape remain as vivid as ever.
