Harvey Jason, a celebrated and accomplished stage, film, and television actor, with a storied career spanning decades, was born on February 29, 1940, in the bustling city of London, England.
Jason's journey began at the tender age of 19, when he found himself in the vibrant city of New York, poised to take on the world with unwavering ambition and unrelenting passion. Little did he know, this marked the dawn of an illustrious career that would soon unfold. A mere year later, Jason made a lasting impression in the esteemed Shakespeare in the Park, a prestigious platform under the guidance of the renowned Joseph Papp. This auspicious debut served as a springboard for a myriad of subsequent performances in off-Broadway, national tour, and Broadway productions, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile thespian.
Jason's remarkable aptitude for dialects and his unparalleled capacity to seamlessly adopt any accent, no matter how complex or nuanced, rendered him an extremely coveted actor in the entertainment industry.
Jason's television career was characterized by a plethora of guest star appearances, featuring notable performances on various popular programs, including the esteemed drama series "My Friend Tony", starring the renowned actor James Whitmore, as well as the iconic comedy sketch show "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In".
Additionally, Jason had the opportunity to share the screen with the talented Bruce Boxleitner in the action-adventure series "Bring 'Em Back Alive". Furthermore, he secured a season-long role as Harry Zeff in the highly acclaimed and successful NBC mini-series "Captains and the Kings", which garnered widespread critical acclaim and commercial success.
Jason's illustrious career in film has seen him collaborate with an array of esteemed actors, including the inimitable Michael Caine, the incomparable Jack Lemmon, the exceptional George C. Scott, and the talented Bruce Boxleitner, among many others. This impressive roster of co-stars has been a hallmark of his extensive body of work, which includes a diverse range of films such as the critically acclaimed "Too Late the Hero", the poignant "Lost in the Stars", the thought-provoking "Save the Tiger", the ruggedly entertaining "Oklahoma Crude", the high-octane "Gumball Rally", the action-packed "Air America", and the groundbreaking "The Lost World: Jurassic Park".
Notably, one of Jason's most memorable and enduring roles was in the 1973 film "Necromancy", where he crossed paths with his future wife, Pamela. The couple went on to tie the knot in 1970 and welcomed two sons, Joshua and Louis, into their family.
Jason, a seasoned thespian, bid adieu to his illustrious acting career in 1997, surrendering to his long-held ardor for literature. He embarked on a new chapter, partnering with his son Louis to establish Mystery Pier Books, a bespoke haven for the discerning collector of rare and precious First Edition literary treasures. This esteemed bookshop has garnered widespread recognition, proudly standing tall as one of the most significant and influential First Edition bookshops in the United States.
Biography of Jason:
Born with a passion for the performing arts, Jason's journey began with early endeavors in acting. He quickly made a name for himself, captivating audiences with his nuanced performances and versatility. As his career flourished, he became a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, earning numerous accolades and nominations for his work.
With his acting career reaching new heights, Jason began to feel an insatiable hunger for something more. His love for literature, long simmering beneath the surface, finally boiled over, and he made the bold decision to retire from acting. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, one that would see him follow his heart and pursue his true calling.
In 1997, Jason opened the doors to Mystery Pier Books, a dream he had long nurtured. Partnering with his son Louis, he created a haven for book lovers and collectors, where rare and precious First Edition literary treasures could be admired and cherished. The bookshop quickly gained recognition as one of the most important in the United States, attracting visitors from far and wide who shared Jason's passion for the written word.
Throughout his life, Jason has been driven by an unwavering dedication to his craft and a deep respect for the power of storytelling. His journey, marked by both triumph and perseverance, serves as a testament to the enduring impact of art on our lives.
