Hollywood star Jim Mitchum, who was best known for his role as Robin Doolin in Thunder Road, has died at the age of 84 after a long illness as tributes have begun pouring in
Hollywood star Jim Mitchum has died at the age of 84, it has been announced.
Jim, who was the son of legendary actor Robert Mitchum, died on September 20 at his ranch in Skull Valley, Arizona following a long illness, a family spokesperson announced. Jim’s wife Pamela and their poodle were said to be by his side.
He is survived by his third wife Pamela K. Smith, and children Will, Brian, Ana and Caitlin Ann.
The actor followed in the footsteps of his legendary father, who was nominated for an Oscar, but paved his own career in Hollywood. His breakout role in 1958 cult classic Thunder Road was one of his most notable. The role was originally written for Elvis Presley.
He went on to appear in over 30 films during his career including In Harm’s Way (1965), which starred Kirk Douglas and John Wayne, and Ambush Bay (1966), starring Mickey Rooney and Hugh O’Brian.
Jim was born in Los Angeles to actor Robert Mitchum and Dorothy Spence Mitchum. He made his film debut at the age of eight in the Raoul Walsh Western Colorado Territory. Jim’s mother wished for him to avoid Hollywood, but he went into the industry at age 16, being cast as his actor dad as Robert’s younger brother in Thunder Road.