Kent McCord: Life, Career & Movies You Need To Know!

24 May, 2025

Have you ever wondered how a chance encounter can dramatically alter the course of a life, leading to a career that spans decades and captivates audiences worldwide? Kent McCord's journey from aspiring physical education instructor to beloved television and film actor is a testament to the unexpected turns that life can take and the enduring power of a single opportunity.

Born Kent Franklin McWhirter on September 26, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, McCords early aspirations lay far from the bright lights of Hollywood. The son of Bert and Laura McWhirter, he initially set his sights on a career in physical education, transferring to the University of Southern California in 1961 after attending Citrus Junior College. His ambitions were focused on coaching football and instructing, a path that seemed destined to lead him away from the world of entertainment. However, fate had other plans.

Category	Details
Full Name	Kent Franklin McWhirter
Date of Birth	September 26, 1942
Place of Birth	Los Angeles, California, USA
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	Caucasian
Education	Citrus Junior College, University of Southern California
Original Career Ambition	Physical Education Instructor and Football Coach
Known For	Actor in Dragnet, Adam-12, Predator 2, Airplane II: The Sequel
Current Status	Retired from Acting, still involved with the Screen Actors Guild and race car driving
Notable Roles	Officer Jim Reed in Adam-12 (1968-1975); Various film roles including Predator 2 (1990), Airplane II: The Sequel (1982), Return of the Living Dead 3 (1993)
Involvement with Organizations	Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Former First Vice President
Hobbies	Race car driving
Reference Website	IMDb

The pivotal moment that shifted McCords trajectory came in February 1961. A friend invited him to participate in a touch football game. This seemingly ordinary event brought him face-to-face with singer Ricky Nelson, who, recognizing something special in McCord, offered him his first acting job. This chance encounter proved to be the gateway to Hollywood, launching a career that would define him for generations.

The 1940s, the decade of McCord's birth, were a time of profound global change. World War II dominated the early years, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Following the war, the world entered the era of the Baby Boomers, with rapid advancements in technology. This period witnessed the development of jet engines, nuclear fusion, radar, and rocketry, all of which would later pave the way for space exploration and improved air travel.

McCords acting career encompassed both television and film, and his filmography boasts a diverse range of roles. He graced the silver screen in notable films like Airplane II: The Sequel, offering a comedic flair that delighted audiences. He also took on roles in the science fiction thriller Predator 2, and in the horror genre with Return of the Living Dead 3. These roles demonstrate McCords versatility and his ability to adapt to different genres.

However, it was television where McCord made his most significant impact. He appeared in beloved TV shows such as Dragnet, bringing his acting prowess to the classic police procedural. Furthermore, he appeared in the science fiction series Galactica 1980, and Farscape, which further demonstrated his versatility. His most iconic role, however, was undoubtedly as Officer Jim Reed in the television series Adam-12. Set in Los Angeles during the 1970s, Adam-12 saw McCord and his co-star, Martin Milner, fighting crime on the streets of Los Angeles, becoming a fixture in homes across America. The show's realistic portrayal of police work and the characters' relatable personalities made it a long-lasting success, solidifying McCord's place in television history.

McCords involvement with the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) is a testament to his commitment to the acting profession. He served as the First Vice President of the Guild, demonstrating his dedication to advocating for the rights and well-being of his fellow actors. Even in retirement, McCord remains connected to the industry he helped shape.

Beyond acting, McCord has found a passion for race car driving, a hobby that allows him to embrace the thrill of speed and competition. It is this continued involvement with his various passions that keeps McCord active and engaged.

The photo gallery, a curated selection of exclusive media clips and images, provides a glimpse into McCord's life and career, offering fans a deeper connection to the man behind the roles. These galleries reveal a wealth of behind-the-scenes images and other content. These provide a rare look at McCord, both on and off set.

The death of Martin Milner, McCord's co-star in Adam-12, in 2015 marked the end of an era. The enduring friendship between Milner and McCord, and the lasting impact of Adam-12 continues to resonate with audiences.

Kent McCords journey is a story of resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of seizing opportunities. From the football field to the silver screen, he crafted a career that has entertained and inspired generations. As he enjoys his retirement, his legacy as an actor, advocate, and enthusiast continues to evolve.

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Kent McCord Became Reserve Officer after 'Adam 12' He Chose to

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