David Nelson (actor) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids David Nelson
David Nelson in c. 1964
Born	David Oswald Nelson (1936-10-24)October 24, 1936 New York City, U.S.
Died	January 11, 2011(2011-01-11) (aged 74) Century City, California, U.S.
Resting place	Westwood Memorial Park
Alma mater	University of Southern California
Occupation	Actor
Years active	1948–1990
Spouse(s)	June Blair ​ ​ (m. 1961; div. 1975)​ Yvonne O'Connor Huston ​ ​ (m. 1975)​
Children	5
Parent(s)	Ozzie Nelson Harriet Nelson
Relatives	Ricky Nelson (brother) Kristin Nelson (sister-in-law) Tracy Nelson (niece) Matthew Nelson (nephew) Gunnar Nelson (nephew) Sam Nelson (nephew)

David Oswald Nelson (born October 24, 1936 – died January 11, 2011) was an American actor. He was famous for starring with his family in the popular TV show The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. He was also the older brother of the well-known musician Ricky Nelson.

Early Life of David Nelson

David Nelson was born in New York City on October 24, 1936. His parents were famous entertainers, Ozzie Nelson and Harriet Nelson. His younger brother was Ricky Nelson. In 1941, David and his family moved from New Jersey to Los Angeles, California.

He went to Hollywood High School. While studying, he also played on the football team and worked on TV shows. Later, he attended the University of Southern California.

David Nelson's Career

Acting Roles

The Nelson family, around 1952

David Nelson started his acting career in 1949. He and his brother began playing themselves on their parents' radio show, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. This radio show was very popular and lasted until 1954.

His first movie role was in Here Come the Nelsons, which came out in 1952.

Also in 1952, David continued playing himself on the television version of The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. This TV show was a huge hit and ran for many years, until 1966. In the early 1960s, he even started directing some episodes of the show.

During the 1950s and 1960s, he appeared in several other movies. These included Peyton Place, The Big Circus, and Day of the Outlaw.

From the 1970s to 1990, David Nelson had roles in movies and TV shows like Up In Smoke and The Love Boat. His last movie appearance was in the 1990 film Cry-Baby.

Directing and Producing Work

Besides acting, David Nelson also worked behind the scenes. He directed many episodes of The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. He also directed other TV shows like Ozzie's Girls.

He directed several movies too. Some of these films include Childish Things and Death Screams.

In 1973, he also worked as a producer for Ozzie's Girls. A producer helps manage the making of a film or TV show.

Personal Life and Passing

David Nelson had two sons, Daniel Blair and James Eric, from his first marriage to June Blair. Later, he adopted three more children—John, Eric, and Teri—during his second marriage to Yvonne Huston.

David Nelson passed away on January 11, 2011, in Century City, California. He died due to complications from an illness.

Filmography Highlights

Awards and Recognition