LOS ANGELES – David Nelson, who starred on his parents’ popular television show “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” has died, a family spokesman said. He was 74.

Nelson, who was battling complications of colon cancer, died Tuesday at his Los Angeles home, said family spokesman and longtime Hollywood publicist Dale Olson.

Nelson was the last remaining member of the Nelsons TV family, which included actor/bandleader Ozzie and his singer wife, Harriet Hilliard, and Rick Nelson. The show originated on radio in 1952 as “Here Come the Nelsons,” then ran for 320 episodes on TV from 1952 to 1966 as “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” with some of the story lines taken from the stars’ own lives. David Nelson also directed and produced numerous episodes of the show throughout its run.

Singer Gunnar Nelson, a son of Rick Nelson, issued a statement Wednesday, saying his uncle’s death was “a great loss to the Nelson family.”

“We will all miss Uncle Dave’s laughter and evolved sense of humor,” Gunnar Nelson said.

Exterior scenes for “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” were shot outside the Nelson family home in the Hollywood foothills, and it remains a popular attraction for visitors on celebrity bus tours.

Born in New York City, David attended Hollywood High School and the University of Southern California.

His film credits included “Peyton Place,” “The Remarkable Mr. Pennypacker,” “The Big Circus,” “Day of the Outlaw,” “30,” “The Big Show,” “Love and Kisses” and “Swing Out, Sweet Land.” In 1976, he costarred with his mother in “Smash-Up on Interstate 5.”

Nelson also was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

 

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