Tony Dow, best known for his role as Wally Cleaver on the popular 1950s sitcom “Leave It to Beaver,” has passed away at the age of 77. Dow never set out to be an actor, he grew up in Hollywood and was a competitive swimmer. However, he was cast as Wally Cleaver, the helpful big brother on the show, after accompanying his swimming coach to an audition.
The show “Leave It to Beaver” ran for six seasons and became a cultural touchstone, depicting the idealized suburban life of the 1950s and 60s. Dow’s character, Wally Cleaver, was the older brother of the show’s main character, Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver, and was often depicted as a role model for his younger brother and his friends.
Although Dow took on a few acting and directing jobs after the show ended, he was never able to shake the character he played as a child. This made him feel typecast and limited in his career options. In January, Dow told CBS Sunday Morning, “I thought, this isn’t fair. I’d like to do some other stuff.
I’d like to do some interesting stuff. It’s sad to be famous at 12 years old or something and then you grow up and become a real person and nothing’s happening for you. ”
This frustration with his career and the inability to shake his iconic role led to Dow experiencing depression from the age of 20 to 40. He eventually learned to manage his depression by creating art, going to therapy and taking medication. In May, Dow revealed that he was suffering from cancer, and his managers did not include a cause of death. He is survived by his wife, Lauren Carol Shulkind.
Dow’s passing is a loss to the entertainment industry and to the fans who loved him as Wally Cleaver. He will be remembered for his talent and his portrayal of an iconic character that brought joy to many.
