Richard Duane Kelton's existence began in the city of Lincoln, Nebraska, where he was welcomed into the world by his parents, Fred and Glenna Kelton, and was, in fact, their solitary offspring. As he navigated the early years of his life in Miami, Oklahoma, he discovered a profound fascination with the art of acting, an interest that was sparked by the captivating performances of the legendary James Dean, whose impact on Kelton's own acting career would be profound and far-reaching.
Kelton's fervent enthusiasm for the dramatic arts led him to seek out a rigorous education at The University of Kansas, where he meticulously refined his craft under the guidance of esteemed instructors.
Following the completion of his academic pursuits, Kelton made the bold decision to relocate to the sun-kissed state of California, driven by an unwavering determination to turn his aspirations into a reality.
It was in 1970 that Kelton made his professional debut, appearing in a two-part episode of the highly acclaimed television series "Gunsmoke," where he brought to life the character of "Bud" in the episode titled "Snow Train," marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning acting career.
Noteworthy was the early triumph that preceded Kelton's television movie debut, where he took on the distinctive role of "Lieutenant Charring" in the 1970 cinematic endeavour "Wild Women". This marked the beginning of a prolific career, as he went on to accrue a substantial number of guest-starring roles and film appearances, thereby demonstrating his remarkable range and adaptability as a thespian.
Kelton's impressive resume extends beyond the realm of screen acting, as he also made a significant impact on the world of theater. One notable achievement was his portrayal of the character "Nick" in the 1976 Broadway revival of Edward Albee's iconic play "Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?", a production that showcased his remarkable acting abilities. Furthermore, Kelton's talents were also showcased in the television realm, where he landed the starring role of "Ficus" in the short-lived science fiction series "Quark" in 1978.
Kelton's illustrious career was characterized by a steadfast dedication to his craft, as he consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on a diverse array of roles, showcasing his versatility and range as a performer.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Kelton was deeply committed to giving back to his alma mater, The University of Kansas, where he had once walked the hallowed halls of learning.
In 1978, Kelton made a triumphant return to his alma mater, where he delivered a seminar on films, sharing his expertise and insights with a new generation of students and professionals, and leaving a lasting impact on the university community.
Kelton's life was tragically and prematurely brought to a close in the year 1978, at a time when his career was reaching its peak and his star was shining brightly. This untimely demise was a devastating blow to those who knew and loved him, and to the many fans who had come to admire his remarkable talents.
Despite the cruel hand of fate that had been dealt to him, Kelton's passing did not diminish the impact he had on the world of entertainment. Rather, his legacy continued to grow and flourish, inspiring a new generation of performers and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
To this day, Kelton's influence can still be felt, a testament to the enduring power of his talent and the lasting impact he had on those who knew him. His memory lives on, a reminder of the importance of pursuing one's passions and leaving a lasting legacy.
