David Janssen

David Janssen Profile Photo

Characters played by David Janssen

Richard Kimble — The Fugitive (1963)

Wrongly convicted surgeon on the run to clear his name.

George Beckworth — The Green Berets (1968)

American reporter initially skeptical of U.S. intervention in Vietnam. Kirby invites him to observe operations firsthand. Beckworth witnesses harsh interrogations and VC atrocities, fights in the camp defense, and ultimately changes his stance, deciding to write a story supporting American involvement.

George Faber — The Shoes of the Fisherman (1968)

Rome-based television journalist and husband of Dr. Ruth Faber. His troubled marriage provides the context for the Pope's chance encounter with Ruth in the streets of Rome.

Sheriff Aaron Whitaker — Moon of the Wolf (1972)

Sheriff Aaron Whitaker leads the investigation into the young woman's death in Marsh Island. He questions local residents, suspects Lawrence, investigates Andrew's connection to the victim, and eventually confronts the werewolf threat. He works closely with Louise, whose knowledge of folklore helps him understand Andrew's inherited curse.

Sgt. Tom Valens — Warning Shot (1967)

Protagonist and LAPD sergeant. Wrongfully accused of manslaughter after shooting a prominent physician on a foggy night. Suspended by the force, he conducts an independent investigation to clear his name, ultimately uncovering a drug smuggling ring and forcing a fatal confrontation.

Sgt, Bill Hazen — Hell to Eternity (1960)

Platoon sergeant at Camp Pendleton who initially clashes with Gabaldon but eventually earns his respect. Transferred to Hawaii with the 2nd Marines. On Saipan, he is shot in the leg, pinned down during combat, and ultimately killed by a Japanese swordsman. His death marks a turning point in Gabaldon's combat experience.

Steve — Two-Minute Warning (1976)

An attendee in an argumentative middle-aged couple with Janet. He is among the spectators shot during the attack and stampede.

Tom Colt — Once Is Not Enough (1975)

A hard-drinking, impotent novelist and rival of Mike Wayne. He becomes involved in a passionate affair with January but ultimately abandons her in her time of need.

Ted Dougherty — Marooned (1969)

Ted Dougherty is NASA’s chief astronaut and a strong advocate for attempting the dangerous rescue mission. He challenges Charles Keith’s caution, dismisses some preparation concerns, appoints himself pilot of the experimental X-RV, and ultimately reaches orbit to retrieve Buzz Lloyd and transfer the surviving astronauts to safety.

Police Lieutenant Hopkins — Francis in the Haunted House (1956)

Police lieutenant involved in the New York investigation and Peter's arrest.

Jim Bolton — Generation (1969)

Doris's father and an advertising executive. Initially alarmed by her choice to refuse medical care, he secretly arranges for Dr. Stan to intervene at the delivery, ultimately reconciling with Walter.

David Christopher — The Swiss Conspiracy (1976)

Former U.S. Justice Department official residing in Geneva, hired by the bank to investigate the blackmail scheme targeting anonymous accounts. He tracks suspects and recovers the ransom diamonds in the Alps after the collector is killed.

Career Overview

David Janssen has 74 screen credits in a career dating back to 1944. Their work spans 3 cinematic universes — most prominently Francis the Talking Mule Collection with 3 titles. Signature works include The Fugitive, Moon of the Wolf, The Green Berets. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.

Personal Facts

Known For
Acting
Gender
male
Known Credits
74
Birth Date
1931-03-27
Birth Place
Naponee, Nebraska, USA

Known For

Associated Universes

Universe traveler — spans 3 universes

Frequent Collaborators

Credits

Content sources

Related entry on Wikidata (Q498840), public domain (CC0).