Who Is Brandon deWilde? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on April 9, 1942, Brandon deWilde was an American actor who captivated audiences with his performances from a young age. Known for his significant roles in both theater and film during the 1950s and 1960s, he made a lasting impact in the entertainment industry until his untimely death in 1972. Today, Brandon would be 83 years old if he were alive in 2025. His early start in acting and subsequent accomplishments have cemented his status as a memorable figure in Hollywood history.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 9, 1942 |
| Age | 30 Years |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 6 July, 1972 |
| Died Place | Denver, Colorado, U.S. |
Popularity
Brandon deWilde's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Brandon deWilde stood tall at approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) and had a weight of around 150 pounds (68 kg). While exact body measurements are not available, his slender frame complemented his boyish charm, which was often highlighted in the characters he portrayed.
On July 6, 1972, while in Colorado for a Denver stage production of Butterflies Are Free, at the Elitch Theatre, deWilde was killed in a traffic accident in the Denver suburb of Lakewood. He was driving in a camper van that left the roadway before striking a guardrail and a parked truck.
The van rolled onto its side, and he was pinned in the wreckage. He was taken to St. Anthony Hospital, where he died at 7:20 p.m. of multiple injuries that included a broken back, neck and leg. He was 30 years old.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While much of Brandon's early life and family background remain private, he was known to have been close to his family throughout his career. Regarding his romantic life, details about his relationships are limited. However, deWilde was known to have had a few notable relationships in his lifetime. He is not reported to have married during his time, focusing primarily on his career.
DeWilde shared an onscreen camaraderie with both James Stewart and Audie Murphy in the 1957 Western Night Passage. In 1958, deWilde starred in The Missouri Traveler, sharing lead billing with Lee Marvin in another coming-of-age film, this one set in the early 1900s. At the age of 17, he played an adolescent father in the 1959 drama Blue Denim.
He guest-starred on many TV series, including Alcoa Theatre and the popular Western series Wagon Train.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1972, Brandon deWilde had an estimated net worth of around $1 million, which would be equivalent to approximately $6 million today, adjusting for inflation. His earnings primarily came from his acting career, including film roles and stage performances. Details on specific salaries for his performances are rarely disclosed.
Career, Business and Investments
Brandon deWilde began his career at a young age, appearing in various television shows and movies. His breakthrough role came in the film "Shane" (1953), which earned him critical acclaim. He also excelled in the theater, performing in productions such as "The Member of the Wedding." Over his brief career, he made significant contributions to the arts before his life was cut short by a tragic accident.
DeWilde had hoped to embark on a music career. He asked his friend Gram Parsons (later of the Byrds and founder of the seminal country rock band the Flying Burrito Brothers) and his International Submarine Band to back him in a recording session.
ISB guitarist John Nuese claimed that deWilde sang harmony with Parsons better than anyone except Emmylou Harris. Bassist Ian Dunlop wrote, "The lure of getting a record out was tugging hard at Brandon."
Social Network
Though there isn't an extensive record of Brandon deWilde's involvement in social media—due to the time period he lived in—modern fans can find tributes and discussions about him on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Engaging with these pages offers a glimpse into his legacy and the impact he had on the acting community.
Education
Brandon deWilde's formal education details are sparse, as he began acting at a very young age and often prioritized his career over traditional schooling. It's known that he was a bright student, and his talents were nurtured through various acting classes and workshops.
Conclusion
In 2025, Brandon deWilde's legacy as a talented actor continues to inspire new generations. From his humble beginnings to unforgettable performances, his impact on theater and film is a testament to his artistry. Although Brandon is no longer with us, his contributions to the entertainment industry remain cherished by fans and critics alike.
