Peter Breck Dead: 'The Big Valley' And 'Maverick' Actor Dies At 82

Peter Breck, known for his roles in "The Big Valley" and "Maverick" has passed away at the age of 82. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Breck's wife made the announcement at "The Big Valley" fan fiction forum, The Big Valley Writing Desk.

Throughout "The Big Valley's" four seasons -- from 1965 to 1969 -- Breck played Nick Barkley, the son of Victoria Barkley, Barbara Stanwyck's character.

Breck's other TV roles include multiple TV Westerns. He appeared on several episodes of "Maverick" as Doc Holliday, "Lawman" and "Black Saddle." Following "The Big Valley," Breck made guest appearances on several shows including "General Hospital," "Fantasy Island" and "The Incredible Hulk." His last credited role is the 2004 film "Jiminy Glick in Lalawood."

According to THR, Breck had been suffering from dementia and had been hospitalized since early January.

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Comments

[Alicia Clark Trawick]

06:28 PM on 02/17/2012

This world is a sadder place without the presence of Peter Breck. He portrayed the character traits of pure chivalry above common courtesy in a man.

[nivek]

08:06 AM on 02/13/2012

I will never understand HP. Why would you headline Peter Breck's death with a picture of Mr. Postlethwaite?

[doublels]

05:44 AM on 02/13/2012

I ''knew'' Peter Breck as a child because he & my mother used to be in dance contests together. When he was in Black Saddle he came home to Rochester for a visit and my parents & their friends had a party for him. We have the pictures & he gave everyone a stunt bullet from his show. Much excitement. He sure was a handsome guy! The night before I read of his death I was watching the local weather with the map showing Rochester, NY & Coburg, Ontario. There used to be a ship that made the crossing over & back for a huge party with dancing & drinking. I thought of him & my mom dancing on that ship.

[jalowe1957]

04:48 PM on 02/12/2012

If you want him to see his acting chops in action, watch the Samuel Fuller cult film, "Shock Corridor." That, along with his role in "The Big Valley," helps to atone for the folk music exploitation atrocity, "Hootenanny Hoot."

Rest peacefully, Pete.

[luvobama]

02:18 PM on 02/12/2012

We named our first son after his character.  R I P

[Canis tacitus]

11:22 AM on 02/12/2012

As the eldest of three, I always had to Jared, Adam (Bonanza), or the one on My Three Sons because birth order ruled at TV time. Adam was OK, but I wanted to be tough and do things like Nick. As Belushi would say, "But noooooooo ...."

[beyondcomprehension]

07:46 AM on 02/12/2012

As Nick, he had a good backhand.

[robjh1]

01:12 AM on 02/12/2012

Great actor.

[Lisica]

07:34 PM on 02/11/2012

A very underrated actor.

Besides "The Big Valley," I enjoyed seeing him in the 1963 film "Shock Corridor," directed by Samuel Fuller.

[shempbat]

06:55 PM on 02/11/2012

Ah, 60's tv. A time when you could watch great tv shows and not be interupted by commercials for douches, rags or erections. RIP mr Breck!

[susandiane]

07:25 AM on 02/12/2012

And not every FIVE MINUTES either!

[rambot02]

08:03 PM on 02/12/2012

One word: TiVo.

[shempbat]

11:08 PM on 02/12/2012

Wasn't that the 80's group that wore flower pots on their heads?

[demorick2]

04:16 PM on 02/11/2012

My favorite Barkley brother...RIP, Mr. Breck.

[jerryatthebeach]

04:09 PM on 02/11/2012

What happened to studly Heath???

[MIvoter1231]

05:36 PM on 02/11/2012

Still alive and kicking. I imagine living well off his 6 million dollar man money.

[jerryatthebeach]

08:11 PM on 02/11/2012

That's right, I forgot....

[contrarymv]

04:06 PM on 02/11/2012

this puts a tear in my eye and a hole in my heart. the Barkleys were such a staple in my youth AND now in reruns. i would not be surprised if they were as integral in shaping my values as my family. and Nick, inimitable Nick ... had to love him ... the bull in the china shop, but always meaning well, and Peter Breck played him to a T. i am sad to hear he has departed, but forever grateful for the gift of hours and hours of entertainment his acting has supplied.

[thisoldbroad]

06:02 PM on 02/11/2012

Well said.

[contrarymv]

07:28 PM on 02/11/2012

aww shucks ... thank you ma'am

[gneep]

01:53 PM on 02/11/2012

Rest in Peace Dear Brother.......

[economystc]

01:35 PM on 02/11/2012

Very memorable character. Fond memories. R.I.P. Peter Breck.

I might add that in today's hollywood publically lauded divorce problems, this man's marraige lasted "til death."

[Night1]

08:46 PM on 02/12/2012

Amen! Say it economystc !