At age 30, actor Harvey Stephens had a sophisticated charm and staid, long-jawed handsomeness that seemed ideal for the big screen, particularly in elegant or period settings. A veteran of a handful of Broadway shows by the time he made his sudden move to film, he was handed on a silver platter a debut starring role. The drawback was that playing opposite him would be a Broadway legend and one the boldest scenery chewers of all-time -- 'Tallulah Bankhead' , he ended his career on TV in 1965 with an episode of "Bonanza," then retired quietly to the Southern California area. Harvey died just a few days before Christmas in 1986 at the Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California, and was survived by present wife Barbara and three children. He was 85 years old.
Was a glider enthusiast off camera. Noted aircraft designer Harland Ross built for him a glider which became known as the Ross RS-1 Zanonia (the RS standing for "Ross Stephens"). Stephens himself organized professional glider competitions in the Southern California area. In 1966 he was inducted into the Soaring Hall of Fame for his work in this sport and later became an instructor for a time at the government glider training school at Wickenburg, Arizona.
Had two children, Peter and Jill, from his second marriage to assistant stage manager Barbara Adams. Adams was 14 years younger than Stephens.
Parents are Jim and Jackie Stephens.
Had his blonde hair straightened and dyed black to play Damien Thorn.
(April 2002) Employed as a futures trader on the London stock market
(March 2004) Is a property developer in Kent, England.
