The story of Earl Holliman’s journey to Hollywood is one of aspiration and perseverance. In 1943, Holliman was 14 years old and adamant that he wanted to be a movie star.
Raised in Oil City and Mooringsport, rather than Shreveport as is often reported, he traveled several places before arriving in Hollywood.
He first went to visit relatives in Camden, Arkansas, and from there took a bus to Texarkana. From there he went to Hollywood.
Holliman worked the night shift at a restaurant near Barksdale Air Force Base and as an usher at a theater, so he saved some money. A service technician he met at a coffee shop even gave him directions to a place to stay, which turned out to be in El Monte, California, far from Hollywood. Looking back on his journey, Holliman admits it was a dangerous decision that would not be prudent in modern times.
EVERYDAY LIFE IN HOLLYWOOD
After his initial attempt in Hollywood failed, Holliman made a quick trip back home before deciding to serve in the Navy. But his desire to become a movie star never disappeared. He later returned to Los Angeles.
Holliman’s persistence was rewarded. He amassed a remarkable reel of credits that included roles in such films as “Forbidden Planet,” “The Rainmaker,” “Giant” (1956) and “The Sons of Katie Elder.” In addition, he gained recognition for his television appearances, notably in “Police Woman” with Angie Dickinson and in “The Thorn Birds” with Richard Chamberlain and Rachel Ward.
Holliman fondly remembers his Hollywood days, especially his first morning. Wearing dark glasses and a short-sleeved silk shirt, he walked confidently outside Grauman’s Chinese Theater, wondering if anyone thought he was a celebrity. At that moment, the naive hopes of youth were present.
Check out the image below to see Earl Holliman’s current age, which is 95 years old:
Earl Holliman’s journey from small-town dreamer to Hollywood star is a testament to his determination and passion. His road to fame was far from easy, full of challenges, risks, and detours, yet he never gave up on his dream of becoming a movie star. Despite early setbacks, his persistence paid off as he built an impressive career in both film and television.Â
Now 95, Holliman’s legacy in Hollywood remains intact. He is known not only for his iconic roles in classics such as “Forbidden Planet” and “The Rainmaker”, but also for his contributions to television. His fond memories of his early days in Hollywood reflect the optimism and excitement that fueled his rise to stardom. Earl Holliman’s story continues to inspire anyone who dares to pursue their dreams, no matter how far-fetched or unlikely they may seem.