James Westmoreland, a former soap opera actor who starred in General Hospital and The Young and the Restless, passed away on September 14, 2016, at the age of 80. His cause of death was not officially disclosed, but some sources suggest that he suffered from a long-term illness. His friend, Caylyn Gamboa, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Westmoreland, who was born in Dearborn, Michigan, in 1935, started his acting career in the 1950s under the stage name Rad Fulton. He was represented by Henry Willson, a famous agent who also launched the careers of Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter, and other stars. Westmoreland appeared in several movies and TV shows, such as Marjorie Morningstar, No Time for Sergeants, The Young Philadelphians, and The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis.
In 1963, he parted ways with Willson and reclaimed his original name. He then landed a leading role in the ABC Western series The Monroes, where he played Ruel Jaxon, the love interest of Barbara Hershey’s character. He also had recurring roles in General Hospital as Teddy Holmes and in The Young and the Restless as George Rawlins.
However, his acting career did not last long, as he retired from the industry in 1980. He later moved to La Quinta, California, where he lived until his death.
A Turbulent Personal Life
Westmoreland had a brief and tumultuous marriage with actress Kim Darby, who starred in True Grit and Better Off Dead. They tied the knot in 1970, after knowing each other for only three weeks, but they divorced 47 days later. Westmoreland later said that their relationship was “a mistake from the beginning”.
Westmoreland also struggled with some personal issues, such as depression and substance abuse. According to his website, he was hospitalized for serum hepatitis, which he contracted from using dirty needles in Vietnam, where he served as a soldier. He also admitted that he had a drinking problem and that he attempted suicide several times.
A Legacy Remembered
Despite his troubles, Westmoreland was remembered by his fans and friends as a talented and charismatic actor, who had a promising career in Hollywood. He was also praised for his kindness and generosity, as he often helped out his fellow actors and supported various charities.
He is survived by his son, James Westmoreland Jr., and his granddaughter, Jessica Westmoreland. He was cremated and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean, according to his wishes.
