Dick Hammer


Richard Bernard Hammer was an American athlete, firefighter, and actor.

Early life and education

Born in Long Beach, California, Hammer attended the University of Southern California.

Career

Hammer was a basketball player at the University of Southern California, competed in volleyball at the 1964 Summer Olympics. As an actor, he played the role of Captain Richard "Dick" Hammer in the first season of the Jack Webb produced television show Emergency!, which debuted on January 15, 1972. He left the show midway through the first season, because he felt that being a real life firefighter was more rewarding than playing a fictional one. He returned to the LACoFD and retired with the rank of Captain.
Hammer portrayed the Marlboro Man in cigarette advertisements in the 1970s.

Death

He died in Long Beach from prostate cancer at the age of 69.

Personal life

Hammer's grandson is former University of Southern California starting quarterback and current New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold. Hammer's granddaughter, Franki Darnold, is a record holder for the University of Rhode Island women's volleyball team.