Don Marshall

Don Marshall

Don Marshall in 1967

Don Marshall (May 2, 1936 – October 30, 2016) was a Canadian actor and ice hockey player. He is best known for his role as Dan Erickson in the science fiction television series Land of the Giants.

Early Life and Hockey Career

Don Marshall was born on May 2, 1936, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He developed a passion for ice hockey at a young age and went on to have a successful career as a professional hockey player. Marshall played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, and the New York Rangers. He was known for his speed and agility on the ice, earning him the nickname "Dashing Don."

Acting Career

After retiring from hockey, Marshall transitioned into acting. He made his television debut in 1962 with a guest appearance on the popular series The Twilight Zone. Marshall's breakthrough role came in 1968 when he was cast as Dan Erickson in the science fiction series Land of the Giants. The show, created by Irwin Allen, followed the adventures of a group of people stranded on a planet where everything is twelve times larger than on Earth. Marshall's character, Dan Erickson, was the co-pilot of the spaceship Spindrift and one of the main protagonists of the series.

Marshall's performance in Land of the Giants garnered him a dedicated fan base and established him as a prominent actor in the science fiction genre. He continued to work in television, appearing in shows such as Star Trek: The Original Series, Mission: Impossible, and The Bionic Woman. Marshall also had roles in films like The Thing with Two Heads and Terminal Island.

Later Life and Legacy

In his later years, Marshall focused on his family and personal life. He remained active in the entertainment industry, attending conventions and events to meet with fans of Land of the Giants. Marshall's contributions to the science fiction genre and his portrayal of Dan Erickson continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans worldwide.

Don Marshall passed away on October 30, 2016, at the age of 80. His legacy as both a talented actor and a skilled hockey player lives on, inspiring future generations in both fields.

See Also

• Land of the Giants
• The Twilight Zone
• Star Trek: The Original Series
• Mission: Impossible
• The Bionic Woman