Renowned actor Ron Harper, known for his role in “Planet of the Apes,” has passed away at the age of 91, as confirmed by his daughter, Nicole Longeuay, to Fox News Digital. Harper peacefully departed due to natural causes on March 21.
Harper had a distinguished career in Hollywood, making his mark on television screens from 1961 to 1962 with his role in the police drama “87th Precinct.” Following this, he graced “Wendy and Me” from 1964 to 1965.
Before landing his iconic role as astronaut “Alan Virdon” in the “Planet of the Apes” television series, Harper made appearances on “The Jean Arthur Show” and “Garrison Gorillas.”
Despite being part of the well-known “Planet of the Apes” franchise, the television series was short-lived, ending after just 14 episodes due to its performance issues, as reported by the Hollywood Reporter.
After his time on “Planet of the Apes,” Harper joined forces with Marty Krofft for the sci-fi series “Land of Lost” in 1976, playing the character Uncle Jack for its third and final season. Although he was part of only one season, Harper made guest appearances in subsequent years.
Born on Jan. 12, 1933, Harper had an academic journey that led him to Princeton University on a scholarship and later to Harvard Law School on a fellowship, as mentioned by the Hollywood Reporter.
Ron Harper is survived by his daughter Nicole, granddaughters Ronnie and Harper, and his ex-wife Shirley, with whom he shares a family history. Prior to Shirley, Harper was married to Sally Stark.
