Donald James Marshall, a celebrated and accomplished American actor, entered this world on May 2, 1936, and unfortunately, his remarkable life came to a close on October 30, 2016.
Throughout his illustrious career, Marshall is most notably remembered for his outstanding and captivating performance as the memorable character "Dan Erickson" in the beloved and widely popular television show "Land of the Giants", which aired from 1968 to 1970.
Marshall's early life was marked by a strong sense of family, with him being one of four siblings. His educational journey began at San Diego High School, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors. In his early twenties, Marshall embarked on a fascinating odyssey of self-discovery, opting to study engineering between the years 1956 and 1957. Little did he know, this period of his life was about to take an unexpected turn. A close friend, Peter Bren, played a pivotal role in Marshall's transformation, persuading him to explore the captivating world of acting. What's more, Marshall was still serving his country in the army during this time, adding a layer of complexity to his already intriguing narrative.
As Marshall's military service remained an ongoing commitment, he simultaneously pursued a passion for the performing arts by enrolling in the esteemed Bob Gist Dramatic Workshop, a prestigious institution renowned for its rigorous acting training programs.
Concurrently, Marshall chose to further his education in the field of Theatre Arts, enrolling at Los Angeles City College, a reputable institution that offered a comprehensive curriculum in the subject.
