Richard Dawson, the British-American actor and game show host best known for playing Corporal Peter Newkirk on Hogan's Heroes and as the original host of Family Feud, died at a reported age of 79. Understanding how old Richard Dawson was when he passed away helps place his career milestones and personal legacy in clear chronological context.
Below is a detailed profile that covers key dates, career highlights, and public context, followed by an FAQ focused specifically on his age at death.
| Name | Birth Date | Death Date | Reported Age at Death |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richard Dawson | November 20, 1932 | June 2, 2012 | 79 years old |
Early Life and Birth Year Context
Born in Kidbrooke, London, England, Richard Dawson began his path to public life well before television cameras followed him. Establishing his birth year as 1932 is essential for accurately determining how old he was at each professional milestone.
Career Highlights on Hogan's Heroes
During Hogan's Heroes, which ran from 1965 to 1971, Dawson played Corporal Peter Newkirk and became widely recognized. Viewers who wondered how old Richard Dawson was during this popular era can calculate his age using his 1932 birth year and the show's timeline.
Family Feud Tenure and Mainstream Fame
As the original host of Family Feud from 1976 to 1985, Dawson built a massive audience. Knowing how old Richard Dawson was when Family Feud peaked offers perspective on his energy, humor, and connection with viewers during this defining chapter.
Later Work and Final Years
After Family Feud, Dawson continued acting and making guest appearances, living well beyond his main fame years. Understanding how old Richard Dawson was when he passed away in 2012 clarifies the timeline between his last major roles and his final years.
Legacy Timeline and Key Takeaways
- 1932: Born November 20, establishing the baseline for age calculations.
- 1965–1971: Starred on Hogan's Heroes, building early recognition.
- 1976–1989: Hosted Family Feud, reaching peak fame and household name status.
- 2012: Died at age 79 on June 2, marking the end of a prominent entertainment career.
FAQ
Reader questions
How old was Richard Dawson when he died exactly?
Richard Dawson was 79 years old at the time of his death on June 2, 2012.
What were the reported dates surrounding his passing at age 79?
He died on June 2, 2012, having been born on November 20, 1932, which corresponds to age 79.
Did his age at death differ by source or is 79 consistent?
Most reliable sources consistently report that Richard Dawson was 79 years old when he died in 2012.
How does his age at death compare with other Hogan's Heroes cast members?
At 79, Richard Dawson's lifespan was comparable to several of his castmates, reflecting similar generational aging patterns.