Kent McCord, the renowned American actor, has had a storied career spanning decades. His rise to fame began with the hit series “Adam-12” in 1968, where he played the iconic character of Officer Jim Reed. However, McCord’s greatest accomplishment is his enduring love story with his high school sweetheart, Cynthia Lee Doty.
Born on September 26, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, McCord grew up with a strong work ethic. At just 10 years old, he began working at his father’s gas station, and later, at the age of 12, he landed a job at Brackett Field Airport in exchange for flying lessons.
McCord’s passion for acting led him to the University of Southern California, where he studied to become a physical education instructor and football coach. His big break came when he was cast in the hit series “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” followed by appearances in several Elvis movies.
The 1960s were a pivotal time for McCord, as he signed with Universal Studios and landed roles in “Dragnet” and “The Big Explosion.” His performance in “Dragnet” caught the attention of creator Jack Webb, who cast him in “Adam-12” alongside Martin Milner.
The series became a massive hit, spanning 174 episodes from 1968 to 1975. McCord’s character, Officer Jim Reed, remains iconic to this day. After “Adam-12,” McCord went on to appear in several other shows, including “Galactica 1980” and “UNSUB.”
Throughout his career, McCord has been recognized for his outstanding performances, including receiving the prestigious Ralph Morgan Award in 1999. He has also been involved with the Screen Actors Guild, serving on its board of directors and as vice president for four years.
McCord’s greatest joy, however, is his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Cynthia, on July 14, 1962, and they have three children together. Their daughters, Kristen and Megan, have followed in their father’s footsteps, appearing in several films and TV shows.
In his personal life, McCord values humility and lives a low-key lifestyle. He enjoys connecting with his fans and has participated in several online meet-and-greets. Despite his fame, McCord remains grounded and grateful for his blessings.
As he looks back on his remarkable career, McCord is reminded of the importance of family, love, and kindness. His legacy extends far beyond his iconic roles, inspiring generations with his humility, compassion, and dedication to his craft.
