Doug McClure

 Can a charming cowboy win over the small screen for decades?

Doug McClure was a fixture of American television Westerns in the 1960s and '70s, best known for his role as Trampas on The Virginian. His boyish charm and rugged looks made him a fan favorite.

Born in 1935, McClure began acting in the 1950s, with early roles in film and TV. When The Virginian premiered in 1962, McClure’s role as the fun-loving, loyal cowboy helped anchor the series across nine seasons.

Though often cast in Westerns, McClure had a wide-ranging career, appearing in action films, science fiction adventures, and television guest spots. He had a natural ease on camera and a relatable, down-to-earth screen persona.

Off-screen, McClure was known as easygoing and personable. He never fully left the spotlight, continuing to work steadily through the 1980s. He passed away from lung cancer in 1995 at the age of 59.

Doug McClure’s legacy as a classic TV cowboy endures. His influence even extended into animation—Troy McClure from The Simpsons was named as a tribute to him.