Who Was Harvey Laidman? Know About Beloved Director of The Waltons and Matlock Who Passed Away At 82

82-year-old Harvey Laidman, well-recognized TV director from iconic series like The Waltons and Matlock, sadly passed away on January 3, 2025.

As stated by his son Dan Laidman, the TV director passed away due to cancer at a care center situated in Simi Valley, California. Over the course of three decades, Dan Laidman directed numerous TV episodes, leaving an indelible mark on the television industry.

1942 saw the birth of Laidman in Cleveland, Ohio. His parents were a librarian and an electrical contractor. For three significant summer periods, he was associated with the Kenley Players, a theater group. During this time, he collaborated on stage productions alongside stars from Broadway and television.

Originally pursuing an electrical engineering education at Kent State University, he eventually switched universities and graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a film degree in 1964.

1975 marked the start of Laidman’s directorial journey, as he took charge of his initial episode for The Waltons. Over the course of this series, he directed a total of 11 episodes, while also playing a part in 33 episodes of Matlock.

As a seasoned lifestyle connoisseur, I’ve had the privilege to lend my creative touch to a variety of beloved television series beyond just one. These include Magnum P.I., Knight Rider, Hawaii Five-O, The Dukes of Hazzard, and Quantum Leap – each a unique gem in the vast landscape of entertainment. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to helm episodes for 7th Heaven and Scarecrow and Mrs. King, adding my own artistic flair to these cherished productions.

Apart from his television work, Laidman harbored a deep interest in science and technology. At just 12 years old, he obtained an amateur radio license, and further down the line, he went on to earn a doctorate in education.

During the latter part of his life, Laidman melded his passion for education and cinema as he taught directing at California State University, Northridge, from 2011 to 2023.

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2025-01-12 10:22