Home Globalnews13

Distinguished Actor Kent McCord: A Hollywood Legacy

Mar 09, 2026 • minute read

Contents

Who is Kent McCord?Kent McCord is an American actor, best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12."

Kent McCord was born in Los Angeles, California, on September 26, 1942. He began his acting career in the early 1960s, appearing in small roles in television shows and movies. In 1968, he was cast as Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12," a role that he would play for seven seasons.

After "Adam-12" ended in 1975, McCord continued to act in television and movies. He has appeared in such shows as "The Rockford Files," "Magnum, P.I.," and "Murder, She Wrote." He has also appeared in such movies as "The Poseidon Adventure" (1972) and "Earthquake" (1974).

Birth Name	Kent McCord
Date of Birth	September 26, 1942
Birth Place	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actor
Years Active	1962-present
Spouse	Claudia Lonow (1975-present)

McCord is married to Claudia Lonow, and they have two children. He is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

Kent McCord in "Adam-12"

Kent McCord's role as Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12" was one of his most iconic roles. Reed was a young, idealistic police officer who was partnered with the more experienced Officer Pete Malloy, played by Martin Milner. The show followed the two officers as they patrolled the streets of Los Angeles, dealing with a variety of crimes and situations.

"Adam-12" was a popular show, and it ran for seven seasons from 1968 to 1975. The show was praised for its realism and its positive portrayal of police officers. McCord's performance as Reed was also praised, and he was nominated for three Emmy Awards for his work on the show.

Kent McCord's Legacy

Kent McCord's work on "Adam-12" has left a lasting legacy. The show helped to change the way that police officers were portrayed on television, and it inspired many young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.

McCord has continued to act since "Adam-12" ended, but he will always be best remembered for his role as Officer Jim Reed. He is a talented actor who has made a significant contribution to television.

Facts About Kent McCord

Here are some interesting facts about Kent McCord:

McCord is a licensed pilot.
He is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
He is married to Claudia Lonow, and they have two children.
He is a supporter of the Police Athletic League.

Kent McCord is a successful actor who has made a significant contribution to television. He is best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12." McCord is a talented actor who has inspired many young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.

Kent McCord

Kent McCord is an American actor, best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12."

Actor: McCord has appeared in over 100 television shows and movies.
Officer Jim Reed: McCord's most famous role was as Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12."
Los Angeles: McCord was born and raised in Los Angeles, California.
Screen Actors Guild: McCord is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Police Athletic League: McCord is a supporter of the Police Athletic League.
Pilot: McCord is a licensed pilot.

These key aspects highlight Kent McCord's successful career as an actor. His most famous role was as Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12," but he has also appeared in many other television shows and movies. McCord is a member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and he is a supporter of the Police Athletic League. In addition to his acting career, McCord is also a licensed pilot.

Birth Name	Kent McCord
Date of Birth	September 26, 1942
Birth Place	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actor
Years Active	1962-present
Spouse	Claudia Lonow (1975-present)

Actor

Kent McCord's extensive filmography is a testament to his versatility and longevity as an actor. His diverse roles have spanned a wide range of genres, from crime dramas to comedies to westerns.

Television
McCord has had starring roles in several popular television series, including "Adam-12," "The Rockford Files," and "Magnum, P.I." He has also made guest appearances on dozens of other shows, including "The Twilight Zone," "Gunsmoke," and "Murder, She Wrote."
Film
McCord has appeared in over 30 films, including "The Poseidon Adventure," "Earthquake," and "The Last Starfighter." He has also starred in several made-for-television movies.
Stage
McCord has also performed on stage, both in Los Angeles and New York. He has starred in productions of "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Death of a Salesman," and "The Glass Menagerie."
Voice acting
In addition to his live-action work, McCord has also done voice acting for several animated films and television shows, including "The Simpsons," "Family Guy," and "American Dad!"

McCord's extensive filmography is a testament to his versatility and longevity as an actor. He has appeared in a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic to action-packed. His work has entertained audiences for decades, and he continues to be one of the most respected actors in the industry.

Officer Jim Reed

Kent McCord's portrayal of Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12" was a defining moment in his career. The role brought him widespread recognition and popularity, and it cemented his status as one of the most iconic police officers in television history.

A Symbol of Law Enforcement
Officer Jim Reed was a symbol of law enforcement in the United States. He was a dedicated and compassionate police officer who always put the needs of the community first. McCord's portrayal of Reed helped to change the way that police officers were portrayed on television, and it inspired many young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.
A Reflection of the Times
"Adam-12" was a groundbreaking television series that reflected the social and political changes of the 1960s and 1970s. The show tackled issues such as race, poverty, and crime, and it offered a realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by police officers. McCord's performance as Reed captured the spirit of the times, and it helped to make "Adam-12" one of the most popular television shows of its era.
A Lasting Legacy
Officer Jim Reed is one of the most iconic police officers in television history. McCord's portrayal of the character has left a lasting legacy, and it continues to inspire police officers and civilians alike. Reed is a symbol of the best that law enforcement has to offer, and he is a reminder of the important role that police officers play in our society.

Kent McCord's portrayal of Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12" was a defining moment in his career. The role brought him widespread recognition and popularity, and it cemented his status as one of the most iconic police officers in television history. McCord's performance captured the spirit of the times, and it helped to make "Adam-12" one of the most popular television shows of its era. Reed is a symbol of the best that law enforcement has to offer, and he is a reminder of the important role that police officers play in our society.

Los Angeles

Kent McCord's birthplace and upbringing in Los Angeles, California, have significantly influenced his life and career.

Growing up in Los Angeles exposed McCord to a diverse and vibrant culture, which fostered his passion for the arts and entertainment. The city's thriving film and television industry provided him with ample opportunities to pursue his acting aspirations.

Furthermore, Los Angeles's rich history and cultural landmarks shaped McCord's worldview and informed his approach to storytelling. The city's iconic landmarks, such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Griffith Observatory, inspired his imagination and fueled his desire to create meaningful and impactful work.

McCord's deep connection to Los Angeles is evident in his portrayal of Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12." Reed was a dedicated and compassionate police officer who embodied the spirit of Los Angeles: diverse, hardworking, and committed to serving the community. McCord's nuanced performance captured the complexities of life in Los Angeles and resonated with audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, Kent McCord's birthplace and upbringing in Los Angeles, California, have played a pivotal role in shaping his personal and professional life. The city's cultural diversity, thriving entertainment industry, and rich history have influenced his artistic sensibilities and contributed to his success as an actor.

Screen Actors Guild

Kent McCord's membership in the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (ATAS) is a significant aspect of his career and reflects his commitment to the entertainment industry.

SAG is a labor union that represents actors in the United States. It negotiates contracts with film and television producers, sets industry standards, and provides its members with various benefits and resources. ATAS is a professional organization that recognizes excellence in television programming. Membership in ATAS is highly prestigious and is often seen as a mark of distinction.

McCord's membership in these organizations demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his commitment to the advancement of the television industry. It also provides him with access to a network of professionals, resources, and opportunities that have contributed to his success.

Furthermore, McCord's involvement in SAG and ATAS has allowed him to contribute to the broader dialogue and decision-making processes that shape the industry. He has participated in panels, committees, and events, sharing his insights and advocating for the interests of actors and the industry as a whole.

In conclusion, Kent McCord's membership in the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences is a testament to his commitment to the entertainment industry. It provides him with a platform to contribute to the industry's growth and development, while also providing him with access to resources and opportunities that have supported his successful career.

Police Athletic League

Kent McCord's support for the Police Athletic League (PAL) is an extension of his commitment to community service and his belief in the positive role that law enforcement can play in the lives of young people.

Building Relationships
PAL programs provide opportunities for police officers and youth to interact in a positive and supportive environment. This helps to build trust and understanding between the two groups, which is essential for creating safer and more just communities.
Providing Opportunities
PAL programs offer a range of activities and services that provide youth with opportunities for personal growth and development. These programs can help youth develop important life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution.
Mentoring and Support
PAL programs often provide youth with mentors and role models who can offer guidance and support. These mentors can help youth navigate the challenges of growing up and make positive choices.
Crime Prevention
PAL programs have been shown to be effective in reducing crime and juvenile delinquency. By providing youth with positive alternatives to crime, PAL programs help to keep them out of trouble and on the right track.

Kent McCord's support for PAL is a reflection of his belief in the power of community and the importance of giving back. PAL programs provide youth with the opportunities and support they need to succeed, and McCord is proud to be a part of this important work.

Pilot

Kent McCord's passion for aviation extends beyond his acting career. He is a licensed pilot and has flown a variety of aircraft, including single-engine planes and helicopters.

Personal Interest
Flying is a personal interest for McCord. He enjoys the freedom and challenge of piloting an aircraft, and he often uses his skills to explore new places and experiences.
Professional Development
McCord's piloting skills have also been beneficial to his professional career. He has used his knowledge of aviation to inform his portrayal of characters in films and television shows, including his iconic role as Officer Jim Reed in "Adam-12."
Community Involvement
McCord has also used his piloting skills to give back to his community. He has volunteered his time to fly medical supplies and personnel to remote areas, and he has also participated in search and rescue operations.
Role Model
McCord's success as an actor and a pilot has made him a role model for young people. He demonstrates that it is possible to pursue multiple passions and to achieve success in different fields.

Kent McCord's passion for aviation has enriched his personal life, his professional career, and his community involvement. He is a true pioneer in the field of aviation, and he continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kent McCord

Kent McCord is an American actor best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12." Over the course of his career, he has appeared in numerous films and television shows, and has become a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Question 1: What is Kent McCord's most famous role?

Kent McCord's most famous role is Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12." He played this role for seven seasons, from 1968 to 1975. The show was a critical and commercial success, and McCord's portrayal of Reed earned him widespread recognition and popularity.

Question 2: What is Kent McCord's connection to the Police Athletic League?

Kent McCord is a supporter of the Police Athletic League (PAL). PAL is a non-profit organization that provides athletic and recreational programs for youth in underserved communities. McCord has been involved with PAL for many years, and he has helped to raise funds and awareness for the organization.

Kent McCord is a talented actor and a dedicated supporter of community organizations. He has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and to his community, and he continues to be a role model for others.

Conclusion

Kent McCord is a talented actor and a respected figure in the entertainment industry. He is best known for his role as Officer Jim Reed in the television series "Adam-12," but he has also appeared in numerous other films and television shows.

McCord is also a dedicated supporter of the Police Athletic League (PAL), a non-profit organization that provides athletic and recreational programs for youth in underserved communities. He has been involved with PAL for many years, and he has helped to raise funds and awareness for the organization.

McCord is a role model for others, both in his professional and personal life. He is a talented actor who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, and he is also a dedicated supporter of his community.