And of course, the series would never have been the same without Dan Haggerty – he seemed so natural portraying the character role.

Actor Dan Haggerty poses for a portrait in circa 1950. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

I think the show resonated so well with people, because the character of Grizzly Adams was a manifestation of who Dan really was. Reading about him today, there are so many heartwarming stories from other actors, to crew members to fans. He was a kind, gentle, and jovial soul.

But let’s start from the beginning and take a look at how this iconic actor came to be the Grizzly Man, captivating an entire generation.

Dan Haggerty’s parents wanted him to become a priest, but that proved easier said than done. Born in 1942 in Los Angeles, he was already a ”wild child” from a young age. According to his best friend Terry Bomar, he went off track and became ”fast and furious.”

Early in life, Haggerty – who was born Gene Jajonski – developed a love for animals and began working on a ranch in the San Fernando Valley. There, he assisted in training animals for various films, caring for a variety of creatures.

NBC

In addition, Haggerty was a formidable powerhouse. He delved into bodybuilding during his teenage years and possessed an impressive physique, which naturally landed him job as a stuntman. He also worked as a set builder and furniture maker on several shows. This blend of skills would become invaluable later in life.

Gradually, he began working as an actor in low-budget films. His experience with animals also brought him work as an animal trainer and handler in films produced by Walt Disney Studios. Haggerty directed white tigers, wolverines, eagles, and wild boars in the 1974 feature film When the North Wind Blows. While shooting the movie, the wild-haired Haggerty was forced to chase a tiger across a frozen lake – an event that garnered significant attention among everyone on set.