David Hedison’s cause of death and bio: Career, family, and lasting legacy
If you are a fan of classic horror and science fiction, you may remember Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea. The 1964 series became a major hit, with David Hedison at its centre. He played the fearless submarine captain. David Hedison’s cause of death remains unknown, but his legacy lives on. Keep reading to learn more about his life, career, and lasting impact.
Source: Getty Images
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Profile summary
- David Hedison’s cause of death
- David Hedison's biography
- What was the cause of death of actor David Soul?
- What was Robert Taylor's cause of death?
- Is Alexandra Hedison related to David Hedison?
- What was Richard Basehart's cause of death?
- What was Richard Basehart's net worth?
- What was Del Monroe's cause of death?
Key takeaways
- David Hedison’s cause of death was never publicly disclosed, though his family confirmed he died peacefully at age 92.
- He gained fame for his role as Captain Lee Crane in Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea and as Felix Leiter in James Bond films.
- Hedison was married to Bridget Mori for nearly 50 years and had two daughters, Alexandra and Serena.
- His career spanned theater, film, and television, leaving behind a respected legacy in the entertainment world.
Profile summary
| Full name | Albert David Hedison |
| Gender | Male |
| Date of birth | 20th May 1927 |
| Place of birth | Providence, Rhode Island, United States |
| Died | 18th July 2019 in Los Angeles, California |
| Hair colour | Black |
| Eye colour | Hazel |
| Height | 1.84 m |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Nationality | American |
| Sexuality | Straight |
| Spouse | Bridget Hedison (1968–2016) |
| Children | Alexandra Hedison, Serena Hedison |
| Education | Brown University |
| Profession | Late actor |
David Hedison’s cause of death
David Hedison passed away on July 18, 2019, at his home in Los Angeles, at 92 years old. His family confirmed his death in a public statement. They said the actor “died peacefully with his daughters on his side.”
A family representative, Jennifer Allen, confirmed his passing. She did not disclose the specific cause of death. This lack of detail is not unusual. Many families choose to preserve privacy around such matters, especially when their loved one had a long, full life.
Hedison’s daughters released a touching statement. They said:
Even in our deep sadness, we are comforted by the memory of our wonderful father," "He loved us all dearly and expressed that love every day. He was adored by so many, all of whom benefited from his warm and generous heart. Our dad brought joy and humor wherever he went and did so with great style.
They went on to say,
He was the most wonderful father and a devoted husband to our mother, who passed away in 2016. He was always kind, loving, and full of humor. He made us laugh and brought out the best in everyone around him.
The statement further read,
David was a longtime member of the Academy who was passionate & truly dedicated to his profession. He generously supported the work of others and was the first to shout 'Bravo' after a worthy performance. We are heartbroken but also grateful to have had such an extraordinary man as our father and friend.
Source: Original
David Hedison's biography
David Hedison was an American actor known for his work in film, television, and theater. He gained fame for playing Captain Lee Crane in Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea. He also portrayed CIA agent Felix Leiter in two James Bond films. His career spanned over five decades.
He was born Albert David Hedison Jr. in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1927. He studied acting in New York and London. He married Bridget Mori in 1968, and they had two daughters. Hedison remained active in the arts until later in life. He was widely respected for his professionalism and charm.
How tall was David Hedison?
David Hedison's height was approximately 6 feet (183 cm). He had a tall and lean build, which gave him a strong presence on screen. The star actor's height suited many of the leading roles he played in both film and television.
Whether in a military uniform on Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea or in spy roles like Felix Leiter, his stature added to his commanding appearance.
Acting career
Source: Getty Images
Hedison’s acting journey began on stage before moving to film and television. He studied drama at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York. Later, he trained at London’s Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. David Hedison, young and ambitious, began his career in theater.
He made his film debut in the 1950s. His breakthrough came in 1958 when he starred in The Fly. He played the role under the name Al Hedison. After this success, he returned to using his full name professionally.
One of his most iconic roles was Captain Lee Crane in Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea. The series aired from 1964 to 1968. Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea cast included Richard Basehart, Robert Dowdell, and Del Monroe. The show made him a household name.
Hedison also played CIA agent Felix Leiter in two James Bond films, one of the popular franchises with the most sequels. He portrayed the character alongside two different Bonds: Roger Moore and Timothy Dalton.
He remained active in television through guest roles well into the 2000s. David Hedison’s movies and TV shows span decades. His work covered science fiction, drama, and spy thrillers. Here are some of his most notable works:
- The Fly (1958)
- Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea (TV series, 1964–1968)
- Live and Let Die (1973)
- Licence to Kill (1989)
- The Enemy Below (1957)
- The Lost World (1960)
- North and South: Book II (1986)
- The Colbys (1985–1987)
- Another World (1991–1996)
- Guest roles on Murder, She Wrote, The Love Boat, and Fantasy Island
David Hedison's wife and children
Bridget Mori Hedison was his wife and life partner for nearly five decades. She was a production assistant. The couple got married in 1968 and stayed together for nearly 50 years. Their marriage lasted until Bridget’s passing in 2016.
Source: Getty Images
They had two children together. David Hedison’s daughters, Alexandra and Serena, were very close to him. Alexandra is a photographer and actress, and is married to actress Jodie Foster, while Serena has worked behind the scenes in film and television.
Both daughters spoke warmly about their father after his passing. They described him as loving, supportive, and full of humor. The family shared a deep bond that remained strong throughout their lives.
What was David Hedison's net worth?
David had an estimated net worth of $1 million at the time of his death. He earned his wealth through a long career in acting, with major roles in film, television, and theater. His most notable appearances include The Fly, Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, and two James Bond films.
Where is David Hedison's grave?
The legendary actor did not have a traditional burial. His body was cremated, and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean.
What was the cause of death for David Janssen?
David died from a sudden and massive heart attack in the early hours of February 13, 1980, at his beachfront home in Malibu, California. He was just 48 years old at the time. The attack occurred around 4 a.m., and he was later pronounced dead at Santa Monica Hospital.
What was the cause of death of actor David Soul?
David Soul’s official cause of death was never publicly disclosed. His wife, Helen Snell, said he passed away on January 4, 2024, “after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family.”
What was Robert Taylor's cause of death?
Robert Taylor, the American actor (born Spangler Arlington Brugh), died of lung cancer on June 8, 1969. He was 57 years old at the time.
Is Alexandra Hedison related to David Hedison?
Yes, Alexandra Hedison is the daughter of actor David Hedison. She is a photographer and former actress. He had two daughters with his wife, Bridget Mori.
What was Richard Basehart's cause of death?
Richard Basehart died from a series of strokes. He suffered the first stroke after narrating the 1984 Olympic closing ceremony. He was hospitalized and fell into a coma. He passed away on September 17, 1984, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He was 70 years old.
Source: Getty Images
What was Richard Basehart's net worth?
Richard's net worth at the time of his death is unknown. There are no public records or verified estimates available.
What was Del Monroe's cause of death?
Del Monroe’s death was caused by leukemia. He passed away on June 5, 2009, in Burbank, California.
David Hedison’s cause of death may be unknown, but his legacy in Hollywood will never be forgotten. His acting career in Hollywood spanned over four decades. David continued working in film and television until his final years. He was a respected and influential figure in the industry.
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