American stage, film, and television actor
Divorced Frances Farmer and married Margaret Hayes on the same day, 12 June 1942.
During the mid nineteen sixties, when roles became scarce, he became a yacht broker at Marina Del Rey, CA.
Studied at USC in California and first worked as a singer and trombonist with Ted Fio Rito and His orchestra. In films from 1933, often in westerns based on Zane Grey novels. Appeared under the name Glenn Erickson early in his career, but, because of his Nordic appearance, his first name was changed to Leif by 1938. Played a succession of stalwart marshals and sheriffs, as well as Deborah Kerrs insensitive husband in Tea and Sympathy. Best known as cattle rancher Big John Cannon in TVs The High Chaparral (1967-1971).
Served four years in the Navy during World War II as a combat photographer.
Was twice shot down while in aircraft, both times he was wounded.
His first name is pronounced as "Laif" (Swedish and Norwegian name).
Visited US soldiers fighting in Vietnam in 1967.
