Robert Crawford Jr., best known for his role as Andy Sherman on the TV series “Laramie,” passed away on December 9, 2021, at the age of 75.
Robert Crawford Jr. was an American actor and television producer who began his career as a child actor. Born on May 13, 1944, he gained fame for his role in the Western television series “Laramie,” which aired from 1959 to 1963. In the series, he played the character Andy Sherman, the younger brother of Slim Sherman, portrayed by John Smith.
Crawford was born into a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry. His father, Robert Crawford Sr., was an Emmy Award-winning film editor, and his brother, Johnny Crawford, was also a well-known actor, particularly recognized for his role as Mark McCain in “The Rifleman.”
After his stint on “Laramie,” Crawford Jr. made appearances in other television shows, including “The Donna Reed Show” and “Rawhide.” As he grew older, he transitioned from acting to behind-the-scenes work in the entertainment industry. He became a television producer and was involved in the production of several series, including “The Untouchables” and “The New Mike Hammer.”
Despite moving away from acting, Crawford Jr.’s early contributions to television, especially his role in “Laramie,” remained a memorable part of his legacy. His death in December 2021 marked the end of a life that had been closely intertwined with the golden age of television. His contributions to the industry, both in front of and behind the camera, are remembered by fans and peers alike.