The old ranger, played by Stanley Andrews, was the host of “Death Valley Days” until 1965, when he was replaced by Ronald Reagan. Andrews passed away in 1969.
“Death Valley Days” was a radio and television anthology series that featured true stories of the old American West, particularly the Death Valley area. From 1952 to 1965, the show was hosted by Stanley Andrews, who was known as “The Old Ranger.” He introduced and narrated the stories with a rugged charm that became a hallmark of the series.
In 1965, Andrews retired from the show, and future U.S. President Ronald Reagan took over as host, continuing until 1966, when he left to pursue his political career. Reagan was followed by a series of other hosts, including Robert Taylor, Dale Robertson, and Merle Haggard when the show transitioned to syndication.
Stanley Andrews, whose real name was Stanley Andrzejewski, had a prolific career as a character actor both before and after his time on “Death Valley Days.” He appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1930s to the 1960s. After leaving “Death Valley Days,” Andrews continued to act until his health declined. He died on June 23, 1969, at the age of 77. His role as the Old Ranger remains one of his most memorable contributions to television history.