Robert Conrad, an enduring symbol of masculine charisma and rugged independence on American television, rose to fame during the golden age of the small screen. Best remembered for his role as James T. West in the cult classic The Wild Wild West, Conrad carved out a niche for himself as a dashing, action-oriented actor who often did his own stunts. But his life off-screen was as dramatic as the characters he portrayed—filled with fame, family, tragedy, and redemption.
In this long-form biography, we explore who Robert Conrad really was, his career highs, family life, personal battles, and his legacy that continues to captivate audiences even after his death. We also touch upon key aspects like the infamous accident that changed his life, his relationship with Joan Kenlay, and more.
Who is Robert Conrad?
Born Conrad Robert Falk on March 1, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Robert Conrad wasn’t born into Hollywood royalty. He grew up in a working-class household and took a variety of jobs—truck driver, milkman, and even dock worker—before finding his calling in acting. With perseverance and raw talent, he made his way into the entertainment industry, ultimately achieving stardom in both film and television.
He began his career in the late 1950s, but it was his breakout role as Tom Lopaka in Hawaiian Eye (1959–1963) that made audiences take notice. The show ran for five seasons and established Conrad as a bankable TV presence. However, it was his performance as Secret Service agent James T. West in The Wild Wild West (1965–1969) that cemented his status as a pop culture icon. His daring, acrobatic stunts (performed by himself) and intense screen presence became hallmarks of the series.
Conrad’s career spanned decades, including notable roles in Baa Baa Black Sheep (1976–1978) and made-for-TV movies such as The Duke and Centennial. In the 2000s, he transitioned into radio with “The PM Show with Robert Conrad”, offering insights, interviews, and reflections on his storied career.
Robert Conrad’s Family and Children
Robert Conrad married twice and had a large family.
His first marriage was to Joan Kenlay in 1952. The couple remained together until 1977 and had five children together:
- Christian Conrad – An actor
- Shane Conrad – Actor and producer
- Joan Conrad – Film producer
- Nancy Conrad – Former actress
- Christy Conrad
After his divorce from Joan Kenlay, Conrad married LaVelda Ione Fann, whom he met while she was crowned Miss National Teenager. They married in 1983 and had three daughters:
- Kaja Conrad
- Camille Conrad
- Chelsea Conrad
In total, Conrad had eight children and at least 18 grandchildren, all of whom he remained very proud of. His children have spoken fondly about his love of family and his commitment to being a present father, even during his peak fame.
Joan Kenlay: The First Lady in Robert Conrad’s Life
Joan Kenlay was Robert Conrad’s first wife and the mother of five of his children. They were high school sweethearts and married young, maintaining their relationship throughout Conrad’s rise in Hollywood. Despite eventually divorcing, the pair reportedly remained amicable. Joan passed away in 1998. She played an important role in grounding Conrad in his earlier years of success.
The 2003 Accident That Changed Everything
One of the most tragic chapters in Robert Conrad’s life occurred on March 31, 2003. Driving on California’s Highway 4 in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Conrad crossed the centerline in his Jaguar and collided head-on with a Subaru driven by Kevin Allan Burnett.
Subsequent investigations revealed that Conrad had a blood-alcohol level of 0.22, nearly three times the legal limit. Both men suffered serious injuries, but Burnett’s injuries were so severe that he never fully recovered. He died two years later in 2005 from a ruptured stomach ulcer. His family attributed his death to the trauma from the crash.
Conrad pleaded no contest to felony DUI charges. He was sentenced to six months house arrest, five years probation, and mandatory alcohol counseling. The accident left Conrad partially paralyzed, with significant impairment on his right side, limited use of his left arm, and speech difficulties. He spent his final years in reduced health but remained mentally sharp.
Is Robert Conrad Still Alive?
No. Robert Conrad passed away on February 8, 2020, at the age of 84, from heart failure at his home in Malibu, California. His death was confirmed by family spokesperson Jeff Ballard, who said, “He lived a wonderfully long life and while the family is saddened by his passing, he will live forever in their hearts.”
His legacy as a television icon continues to inspire admiration, especially from fans of classic American TV action shows.
Robert Conrad’s Age, Birthday, and Height
- Born: March 1, 1935
- Died: February 8, 2020 (Age 84)
- Height: Often listed at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm), although some reports claim 5’10”. It was known that he sometimes wore lifted shoes to meet the physical requirements of Hollywood roles.
Conrad Robert Murray: Name Confusion
It’s important to clarify that Conrad Robert Murray, the former personal physician of Michael Jackson, is an entirely different individual and unrelated to actor Robert Conrad. Due to the similarity in their names—Conrad Robert Murray vs. Robert Conrad (born Conrad Robert Falk)—many people mistakenly associate the two.
While Conrad Murray was involved in the legal controversy surrounding Michael Jackson’s death, Robert Conrad had no connection whatsoever to that case.
Robert Conrad’s Enduring Legacy
Robert Conrad remains a defining figure in the golden age of American television. His roles, especially in The Wild Wild West, set the template for a hybrid action-espionage genre that later shows like MacGyver, Knight Rider, and Mission: Impossible would emulate.
Moreover, his ability to perform high-risk stunts at a time when most stars used doubles made him a standout among his peers. Off-screen, he was fiercely protective of his family, admirably accountable for his mistakes, and carried himself with humility in his later years.
Conclusion
Robert Conrad’s journey from a blue-collar upbringing in Chicago to a Hollywood legend is a story of grit, determination, talent, and resilience. From playing unforgettable characters to surviving a life-altering accident, Conrad’s legacy endures as a symbol of the American action hero.
While he may no longer be with us, the memory of Robert Conrad lives on through his vast body of work and the family he cherished. As fans and admirers look back on his life, we celebrate not just the actor, but the man behind the legend.
Article published by Infory, your trusted source for in-depth celebrity profiles and life stories.