Pernell Roberts, a versatile actor best remembered for his portrayal of the handsome eldest Cartwright son on the classic television western "Bonanza" and later as the lead character in the medical drama "Trapper John, M.D.," died at his Malibu home Sunday. He was 81.
His death after a two-year battle with cancer was confirmed by his wife, Eleanor Criswell.
Roberts became a star as Adam Cartwright, the heir apparent of the fictional Ponderosa ranch, a role he filled from the show's debut in 1959 until 1965, when he left the cast despite the series' immense popularity. "Bonanza" remained on the air for eight more years without him.
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