Cast and Crew of Bonanza

Bonanza

"Bonanza" is a captivating Western television series that aired from 1959 to 1973, spanning an impressive fourteen seasons. The show was set in the picturesque high-sierras, a fitting backdrop for the adventures of the Cartwright family. The patriarch of the family, Ben Cartwright, was brilliantly portrayed by Lorne Greene. Greene infused Ben with a strong sense of morality, wisdom, and a deep love for his family and their Virginia City ranch, known as the Ponderosa.

One of Ben's sons, Eric "Hoss" Cartwright, was affectionately portrayed by Dan Blocker. Hoss was known for his towering stature and gentle demeanor. Despite his size and strength, he was a kind-hearted and compassionate individual, often serving as a mediator during conflicts. His character added a unique dynamic to the show, providing a balance between the rough and tumble Wild West and the softer, more empathetic side of human nature.

The series revolved around the Cartwrights' daily lives, filled with adventure, drama, and a strong sense of community. Each episode showcased their efforts to maintain and protect their ranch, as well as their commitment to assisting their neighbors and the wider community. Their actions reflected the spirit of camaraderie and mutual aid that was prevalent in frontier life, making "Bonanza" not just a Western, but a fascinating exploration of human relationships amidst the challenges of the Wild West.

Continuously praised for its complex characters and engaging storylines, "Bonanza" has become a classic in the Western genre, endearing itself to audiences over multiple generations. By combining elements of adventure, drama, and morality, the show continues to resonate with viewers, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre or television history.

Main Cast of Bonanza

Lorne Greene as Ben Cartwright

Lorne Greene

as Ben Cartwright (431 episodes)
Lorne Greene's portrayal of Ben Cartwright in the beloved Western television series "Bonanza" was both powerful and compassionate. As the dedicated patriarch of the Cartwright family, Greene's character needed to be firm and authoritative, but also nurturing and wise. Greene brought a commanding presence to the screen with his deep, resonant voice and towering stature, imbuing each episode with the warmth and strength that only a family leader could provide. As the center of the Cartwright family, Ben Cartwright dealt with a myriad of challenges, both in his personal life and on the Ponderosa ranch, to which Greene brought a sense of realism and vulnerability. His performance resonated with audiences, making the character a true symbol of American resilience and moral strength, and cemented Lorne Greene's place as an iconic figure in television history.
Dan Blocker as Hoss Cartwright

Dan Blocker

as Hoss Cartwright (415 episodes)
Dan Blocker's portrayal of Eric "Hoss" Cartwright in the beloved television series 'Bonanza' was a standout performance that endeared him to audiences around the world. As a gentle giant with a heart of gold, Blocker brought a unique mix of strength and vulnerability to the character, making Hoss an unforgettable part of the Cartwright family. His endearing charm, sincerity, and ability to deliver heartfelt emotions created a sense of warmth and authenticity that made viewers feel as though they were a part of the ranch themselves. Blocker's performance not only added depth to the show but also made Hoss a character that fans could genuinely care for and root for in the various challenges the family faced throughout their adventures on the Ponderosa.
Michael Landon as Joe Cartwright

Michael Landon

as Joe Cartwright (431 episodes)
Michael Landon's portrayal of Joe Cartwright in the classic television series "Bonanza" is nothing short of iconic. As the youngest of the Cartwright brothers, Joe is characterized by his fiery spirit and impulsive nature, traits that Landon embodied with great charisma. His performance was a perfect blend of youthful charm, rugged masculinity, and emotional vulnerability, making Joe a complex and beloved character. Landon's ability to convey a range of emotions, from deep sorrow to unbridled joy, added depth to the character and resonated with audiences. His on-screen presence was magnetic, often stealing the scene and leaving viewers eager for his next appearance. Landon's performance as Joe Cartwright played a significant role in the show's enduring popularity and continues to be celebrated by fans today.

Secondary Cast of Bonanza

Pernell Roberts as Adam Cartwright

Pernell Roberts

as Adam Cartwright (202 episodes)
Pernell Roberts, as Adam Cartwright in 'Bonanza', delivered a performance that effortlessly combined sophistication and toughness. As the eldest of the Cartwright brothers, Adam was often the voice of reason amidst the chaos of their lives on the Ponderosa ranch. Roberts' portrayal was nuanced, showcasing Adam's intellect and his aptitude for architecture, alongside his physical prowess when it came to defending his family's land. His strong stage presence and rich, baritone voice made Adam a character that was both commanding and charismatic, endearing him to audiences throughout the show's run.
David Canary as Candy Canaday

David Canary

as Candy Canaday (56 episodes)
David Canary's portrayal of Candy Canaday in the beloved Western television series 'Bonanza' is a memorable and impactful performance that greatly enriched the dynamics of the show. Joining the cast in the tenth season, Canary effortlessly embodied the character of Candy, a gentle soul and former Confederate soldier seeking redemption. His nuanced acting brought depth to the character, exploring themes of forgiveness, loyalty, and the struggle to find one's place in a rapidly changing world. Canary's undeniable chemistry with the rest of the cast elevated Candy Canaday into a fan-favorite character, making his performance an essential and unforgettable contribution to the 'Bonanza' legacy.
Tim Matheson as Griff King

Tim Matheson

as Griff King (16 episodes)
Tim Matheson's performance as Griff King in the classic TV show 'Bonanza' was a standout, bringing a fresh dynamic to the familiar cast of characters. Matheson's portrayal of Griff, the streetwise city boy turned cowboy, was both charismatic and authentic, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His on-screen presence added a new layer of intrigue to the storylines, as Griff's urban background clashed with the rural life of the Ponderosa, sparking captivating and often humorous interactions with the Cartwright family. Matheson's nuanced acting, combined with Griff's unique story arc, made his character a memorable addition to the beloved Western series.

Elizabeth Perry

as Ruthie Davis (1 episode)
Bob Barker as Mort

Bob Barker

as Mort (1 episode)

Robert William Barker is a retired American television game show host. He is known for hosting CBS's The Price Is Rig...

Fletcher Allen

as Becker (1 episode)

Jimmy Carter

as Kavanaugh's Grandson (1 episode)

Linda Bennett

as Francine (1 episode)
Pat Crowley as Julia Grant (as Patricia Crowley)

Pat Crowley

as Julia Grant (as Patricia Crowley) (1 episode)

Pat Crowley was born on September 17, 1933 and is currently 91 years old.

Ron Howard as Ted Hoag

Ron Howard

as Ted Hoag (1 episode)

Ronald William Howard (born March 1, 1954) is an American filmmaker and actor. Howard first came to prominence as a c...

Gena Rowlands as Ragan Miller

Gena Rowlands

as Ragan Miller (1 episode)

Virginia Cathryn "Gena" Rowlands (born June 19, 1930) is an American actress. A four-time Emmy and two-time Golden Gl...

Louis Gossett Jr. as Buck Walter

Louis Gossett Jr.

as Buck Walter (1 episode)

Louis Gossett Jr. (born May 27, 1936) is an American film and television actor, best known for his role as Gunnery Se...

Yaphet Kotto as Child Barnett

Yaphet Kotto

as Child Barnett (1 episode)

Yaphet Frederick Kotto was an American actor known for numerous film roles, as well as starring in the NBC television...

Tom Skerritt as Corporal Bill Tanner

Tom Skerritt

as Corporal Bill Tanner (1 episode) , Jerry (1 episode)

Thomas Roy Skerritt (born August 25, 1933) is an American actor who has appeared in more than forty films and more th...

David Huddleston as Myles Johnson

David Huddleston

as Myles Johnson (1 episode) , Doc Scully (1 episode)

David Huddleston (1930-2016) was an American actor, best known for his roles in Blazing Saddles, Santa Claus: The Mov...

Gary Busey as Henry Johnson

Gary Busey

as Henry Johnson (1 episode)

William Gary Busey (born June 29, 1944), best known as Gary Busey, is an American film and stage actor and artist. He...

Jodie Foster as Bluebird

Jodie Foster

as Bluebird (1 episode)

Alicia Christian "Jodie" Foster (born November 19, 1962) is an American actress and filmmaker. She is the recipient o...

Mariette Hartley as Jennifer Carlis

Mariette Hartley

as Jennifer Carlis (1 episode) , Lola Fairmont (1 episode) , Barbara Scott (1 episode) , Mamyope / Alicia Purcell (1 episode)

Mary Loretta "Mariette" Hartley (born June 21, 1940) is an American actress. She is best known for work with Bill Bix...

Martin Landau as Emeliano

Martin Landau

as Emeliano (1 episode)

Martin James Landau (June 20, 1928 – July 15, 2017) was an American actor, acting coach, producer, and editorial cart...

Julie Gregg as Dolly

Julie Gregg

as Dolly (1 episode)

Julie Gregg was born on January 24, 1937 in Niagara Falls, New York, USA as Beverly Scalzo. She was an actress, known...

Janis Hansen

as Millie (1 episode)
Clint Howard as Michael Thorpe

Clint Howard

as Michael Thorpe (1 episode)

An American film and television actor. He is a character actor with numerous brief appearances on television and film...

Kate Jackson as Ellen Clark

Kate Jackson

as Ellen Clark (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Kate Jackson (born October 29, 1948) is an American actress, director, and pr...

Ricardo Montalban as Matsou

Ricardo Montalban

as Matsou (1 episode)

​From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Ricardo Gonzalo Pedro Montalbán y Merino, KSG ( November 25, 1920 – January ...

Leonard Nimoy as Freddy

Leonard Nimoy

as Freddy (1 episode)

Leonard Nimoy was an American actor, film director, poet, musician and photographer. Nimoy's most famous role is that...

Leslie Nielsen as Sheriff Paul Rowan

Leslie Nielsen

as Sheriff Paul Rowan (1 episode)

Leslie William Nielsen, OC (11 February 1926 – 28 November 2010) was a Canadian and naturalized American actor and co...

Beau Bridges as Horace Perkins

Beau Bridges

as Horace Perkins (1 episode)

Lloyd Vernet "Beau" Bridges (born December 9, 1941) is an American actor and director. He is a three-time Emmy, two-t...

Julie Adams as Helen Layton

Julie Adams

as Helen Layton (1 episode)

Julie Adams (born Betty May Adams; October 17, 1926 – February 3, 2019) was an American actress. Description above f...

Nina Foch as Clarissa Cartwright

Nina Foch

as Clarissa Cartwright (1 episode)

Nina Foch (born Nina Consuelo Maud Fock; April 20, 1924 – December 5, 2008) was a Dutch American actress. After signi...

James Whitmore as John Postley

James Whitmore

as John Postley (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia James Allen Whitmore Jr. (October 1, 1921 – February 6, 2009) was an American ...

Harry Dean Stanton as Stiles

Harry Dean Stanton

as Stiles (1 episode) , Billy (1 episode)

Harry Dean Stanton (July 14, 1926 - September 15, 2017) was an American actor, musician, and singer. Stanton's career...

John Marley as Marshal Millett

John Marley

as Marshal Millett (1 episode)

John Marley (October 17, 1907 – May 22, 1984) was an American actor who was known for his role as Phil Cavalleri in L...

Lisa Lu as Su Ling

Lisa Lu

as Su Ling (1 episode)

Lisa Lu Yan (simplified Chinese: 卢燕; traditional Chinese: 盧燕; pinyin: Lú Yàn; born July 8, 1927) is a Chinese-born Am...

Pam Smith

as Lindy Ganther (1 episode)

Anne Benton

as Caroline Partridge (1 episode)

Rosalind Roberts

as Vicki (1 episode)

William 'Shorty' Young

as Barbey Shanks (1 episode)
Robert Vaughn as Luke Martin

Robert Vaughn

as Luke Martin (1 episode)

Robert Francis Vaughn, Ph.D. (November 22, 1932 – November 11, 2016) was an American actor noted for stage, film and ...

Norman Alden as Teller

Norman Alden

as Teller (1 episode)

Norman Alden was born on September 13, 1924 and passed away 12 years ago at the age of 87 on July 27, 2012.

Fionnula Flanagan as Meg Dundee

Fionnula Flanagan

as Meg Dundee (1 episode)

​From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.   Fionnghuala Manon Flanagan (born 10 December 1941) is an Irish actress who...

Tom Bosley as Hiram Peabody

Tom Bosley

as Hiram Peabody (1 episode) , Titus Simpson (1 episode)

Thomas Edward "Tom" Bosley was an American actor. Bosley is best known for portraying Howard Cunningham on the long-r...

Rudy Doucette

as Trial Spectator (uncredited) (1 episode) , Barfly (uncredited) (1 episode) , Juror (uncredited) (2 episodes) , Townsman (uncredited) (10 episodes)
Gary Epper as Gang Member (uncredited)

Gary Epper

as Gang Member (uncredited) (1 episode)

Gary Epper was born on December 31, 1944 and passed away 17 years ago at the age of 62 on December 1, 2007.

Dick Peabody

as Sonny (1 episode)
Penny Santon as Maria Rossi

Penny Santon

as Maria Rossi (3 episodes)

Penny Santon was born on September 2, 1916 and passed away 25 years ago at the age of 82 on May 12, 1999.

Michael Stefani

as Lorenzo Rossi (2 episodes)
Majel Barrett as Belle Ganther

Majel Barrett

as Belle Ganther (1 episode) , Annie Slocum (1 episode)

Majel Barrett-Roddenberry  (born Majel Leigh Hudec; February 23, 1932 – December 18, 2008) was an American actress an...

Dean Stockwell as Matthew Rush

Dean Stockwell

as Matthew Rush (1 episode)

Robert Dean Stockwell (March 5, 1936 – November 7, 2021) was an American film, television and stage actor with a care...

Jack Gordon

as Courtroom Spectator (uncredited) (1 episode) , Ed (uncredited) (1 episode) , Waiter (uncredited) (1 episode) , Juror (uncredited) (1 episode) , Trial Spectator (uncredited) (1 episode) , Assistant Bartender (uncredited) (1 episode) , Court Reporter (uncredited) (1 episode) , Cornerman (uncredited) (1 episode) , Saloon Waiter (uncredited) (1 episode) , Storekeeper (uncredited) (1 episode) , Wedding Guest (uncredited) (1 episode) , Ranch Hand (uncredited) (1 episode) , Claims Clerk (uncredited) (1 episode) , Miner (uncredited) (1 episode) , Bartender (uncredited) (4 episodes) , Barfly (uncredited) (10 episodes) , Townsman (uncredited) (34 episodes)

John Indrisano

as Brawler (uncredited) (1 episode) , Referee (uncredited) (1 episode)
James Gammon as Harry Jeffers

James Gammon

as Harry Jeffers (1 episode)

James Richard Gammon (April 20, 1940 – July 16, 2010) was an American actor, known for his roles as team manager Lou ...

Ted White as Brawler (uncredited)

Ted White

as Brawler (uncredited) (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Ted White (born January 25, 1926) was an American stuntman and actor who was b...

A.G. Vitanza

as Bartender (1 episode)

Robert Sorrells

as Ferguson (1 episode)

Robert Yuro

as Rice (1 episode)

Charles Bail

as Reese (1 episode)

Mark Tapscott

as Steve Rance (1 episode) , Hamilton (1 episode)
Richard Thomas as Billy

Richard Thomas

as Billy (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Richard Earl Thomas (born June 13, 1951 height 5' 8½" (1,74 m)) is an America...

Kevin Tighe as Krulak

Kevin Tighe

as Krulak (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Kevin Tighe (b. Jon Kevin Fishburn; August 13, 1944) is an American character ...

Jonathan Goldsmith as Kyte

Jonathan Goldsmith

as Kyte (1 episode)

Jonathan Goldsmith is an american actor

Clarence Straight

as Older Man (1 episode)
Miriam Colon as Anita Lavez

Miriam Colon

as Anita Lavez (1 episode)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Míriam Colón (born August 20, 1936) is a Puerto Rican actress and the founder ...

Gene Tyburn

as Bert (1 episode) , Tom Bellows (1 episode)

Russell Custer

as Party Guest (uncredited) (1 episode) , Show Spectator (uncredited) (1 episode)

Emmaline Henry

as Miss Sprague (1 episode)
Ralph Waite as Hoby Miles

Ralph Waite

as Hoby Miles (1 episode)

Ralph Waite (born June 22, 1928) is an American actor. His most famous role may be John Walton Sr. on the 1970s CBS T...

Carol Locatell as Etta

Carol Locatell

as Etta (1 episode)

Carol Locatell was an American actress, best known for her small yet memorable role as Ethel in Friday the 13th: A Ne...

James Hong as Hop Sing's #3 Cousin

James Hong

as Hop Sing's #3 Cousin (1 episode)

James Hong (born February 22, 1929) is a Chinese American actor and former president of the Association of Asian/Paci...

Alexander Campbell

as Judge (1 episode)
Donnelly Rhodes as Little Henchman

Donnelly Rhodes

as Little Henchman (1 episode) , Latigo (1 episode)

Donnelly Rhodes was born on December 4, 1937 and passed away 6 years ago at the age of 80 on January 8, 2018.

Jerry Gatlin

as Harvey (1 episode)

Jerry Gatlin was born on November 15, 1933 and is currently 91 years old.

Alan Caillou

as Walter Craigsmuir (1 episode)

George Brenlin

as Whizzer McGee (1 episode)
Dabney Coleman as Ivar Peterson

Dabney Coleman

as Ivar Peterson (1 episode) , Clyde (1 episode)

Dabney Coleman is an American actor. He was born on January 3, 1932, in Austin, Texas. Coleman has had a prolific car...

Robert Tetrick

as Pike (1 episode)

Troy Melton

as Gunman (uncredited) (1 episode) , Blacksmith (uncredited) (1 episode)
Robert Pine as Steed Butler

Robert Pine

as Steed Butler (1 episode)

Robert Pine (born Granville Whitelaw Pine, July 10, 1941) is an American actor who is best known as Sgt. Joseph Getra...

Debbie Smaller

as Beth Claybourne (1 episode)

Crew of Bonanza

Discover the backstage crew of Bonanza →