Michael Landon’s legacy lives on thanks to his top-notch portrayal in classic TV shows and the film industry. The late actor’s acting career is preserved in time through TV projects like “Bonanza,” “Little House on the Prairie,” and “Highway to Heaven.” To his multitude of fans, Michael was one of the best classic TV actors, but to his family, he was a loving father who made sure to bond with his children.

Born a New York native in 1936, Michael, real name Eugene Maurice Orowitz, did not grow up with a happy childhood. During his formative years, Michael was forced to deal with his mother’s failing mental health. She attempted suicide several times, but it was up to him to save her each time. However, Michael’s solace was in sports.

As a high schooler, he broke records at his alma mater with the longest throw-in toss at the time. His exceptional skills helped him ace a college scholarship at the University of Southern California. However, during his college years, he sustained injuries and could not continue as a student-athlete.

Michael could not continue schooling as well, but looking on to the brighter side, he had moved to Los Angeles, and this inspired him to try showbiz. The entertainment industry proved to be his turning point, and he achieved tremendous feats. One of them was him being the only star besides Lucile Ball to grace the cover of TV Guide 22 times. Michael was married three times, with nine children. During his final moments, all of his kids, including director Christopher Landon, rallied around him as he battled cancer. Many years later, Christopher opened up about his kidney cancer diagnosis on June 10, 2021.