Patrick Culliton, a talented individual with a rich personal and professional history, was born in Los Angeles in 1944. His early years were spent in Massachusetts, before he relocated to Hollywood, California with his family in 1953. This move would have a profound impact on his life, as he grew up surrounded by the motion picture industry.
As a young man, Patrick was fortunate to have a family connection to the industry. His uncle was the renowned actor Wallace Ford, while his cousin was the Oscar-winning art director Ted Haworth. Furthermore, Rita Hayworth was his cousin, making him a part of a Hollywood dynasty.
Patrick's academic pursuits led him to graduate from Hollywood High in 1963. A year later, he obtained his SAG card after acting in an episode of "Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea" for producer Irwin Allen. This breakthrough role would lead to further opportunities with Allen, earning Patrick a spot in Allen's "stock company."
In 1968, Patrick's life took a dramatic turn when his reserve unit was called to active duty. He served with the 9th Infantry Division in the Mekong Delta, Republic of Vietnam, from November 1968 to September 1969. For his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart.
After his tour of duty, Patrick returned to civilian life and continued to pursue his passion for acting. He worked on both stage and screen for the next thirty years, establishing himself as a talented and versatile performer.
In addition to his acting career, Patrick developed a deep fascination with the life and legacy of mystery man Harry Houdini. He has worked or consulted on numerous media projects about Houdini, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority on the subject.
Patrick has always been grateful for the support he received from Irwin Allen, who went out of his way to help him get back to work after his tour in Vietnam. He is also proud to have been a friend and student of pioneering African American actor James Edwards.
In his personal life, Patrick is a devoted father to his child, Kieran Culliton, born in 1991. He is fondly remembered by fans of the Starman TV series for his portrayal of Federal Agent Ben Wylie, a character who played a crucial role in the show's narrative.
