Peter Breck, ‘The Big Valley’ Star, Dies at 82

Peter Breck, an actor known best for his roles in “The Big Valley” and “Maverick” has passed away at the age of 82 after a long battle with dementia.

According to the Huffington Post, Breck’s wife made the announcement at “The Big Valley” fan fiction forum, The Big Valley Writing Desk.

A native of Haverhill, Mass., and the son of a jazz musician, Breck scored a contract at Warner Bros. and had guest roles in a number of TV series from the mid-1950s to the early 2000s, including The Virginian, Hawaiian Eye, Perry Mason, Lawman, Branded, Gunsmoke, Fantasy Island, The Fall Guy and John Doe..

His film work included roles in Thunder Road (1958), I Want to Live! (1958), The Beatniks (1960), Portrait of a Mobster (1961), Lad: A Dog (1962), Samuel Fuller’s Shock Corridor (1963) and Benji (1974).

On “The Big Valley,” Breck played Nick Barkley, a hot tempered rancher well-known for his black leather vests, big black hat, black leather gloves and penchant to get into fights. Nick was the brother of the characters played by Richard Long, Charles Briles and Linda Evans and the half-brother to Lee Majors.

Following the show’s production, Breck remained closed friends with several of the cast members.

Deep condolences to Peter’s wife Diane and the entire family as this wonderful cowboy rides off into the sunset.

In memory of Peter Breck, here is a tribute created by Youtube user DBela7: