Robert Conrad, a defining presence in 1960s and 70s television, became a household name through his leading roles in classic series like The Wild Wild West and Baa Baa Black Sheep. While his career spanned acting, singing, and producing, he was perhaps most proud of his role as a devoted father to eight children. Born Conrad Robert Falk in 1935 in Chicago to teenage parents, Conrad’s early years were marked by hard work and varied experiences, including manual labor and time in multiple schools. His journey into acting began at Northwestern University and, with encouragement from actor Nick Adams, led him to Hollywood.

Conrad’s big break came with Hawaiian Eye, but it was his portrayal of Secret Service agent Jim West in The Wild Wild West that made him a television icon. The show, blending Western, science fiction, and espionage genres, was notable for its innovative storytelling and Conrad’s hands-on approach—he famously performed many of his own stunts. Though the series enjoyed high ratings, it was ultimately canceled due to rising concerns about TV violence. Conrad continued to thrive in television with roles in series like Baa Baa Black Sheep and later transitioned into producing, broadening his influence in the industry.

His personal life was just as rich. Conrad married Joan Kenley in 1952, and together they raised five children—Christian, Shane, Nancy, Joan, and Christy—before divorcing in 1977. He later married LaVelda Fann, with whom he had three more children: Kaja, Camille, and Chelsea. Throughout his life, Conrad emphasized discipline, honesty, and hard work in raising his children, values he carried onto the set. Many of his children followed in his footsteps into the entertainment industry, often working with him on various projects.

Conrad’s commitment to family was especially evident in the television shows he produced during the 1980s and 90s. He created series such as High Mountain Rangers and High Sierra Search And Rescue, which featured his sons Shane and Christian as actors, and included his wife LaVelda and daughter Joan as producers. Despite his tough on-screen persona, Conrad built a family-centric work environment and relished the opportunity to share his professional world with his children. His children recall an upbringing that blended structure and warmth, with life lessons and set visits often going hand in hand.

Robert Conrad passed away in 2020 at the age of 84 due to heart failure, leaving behind a lasting legacy as both an actor and a patriarch. With 18 grandchildren and a large family who continues to celebrate his life and accomplishments, Conrad remains a beloved figure. Best remembered as the fearless Jim West, he also stood out for his enduring dedication to his family, a trait that defined him as much off-screen as his bold characters did on it.