Gavan O'Herlihy

Irish-born actor Gavan O'Herlihy eked out his strongest presence in tough-guy roles, specializing in the action, western, and sci-fi genres. He formally debuted in a guest bit on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, then briefly landed the part of Chuck Cunningham, Richie Cunningham's (Ron Howard) older brother, in the first season of the popular period situation comedy Happy Days. Unfortunately (and for unknown reasons) O'Herlihy was replaced in mid-season by Randolph Roberts after a multi-episode stint, but he grew incredibly prolific in features during the decades that followed; credits included Superman III (1983) , Death Wish 3 (1985), Willow (1988) (which reteamed him with Howard), and the telemovie Conagher (1991). ~ Nathan Southern Full Biography »