Peter Graves

Date of Birth: March 18, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: March 14, 2010

Biography

Peter Graves, born Peter Duesler Aurness, was an accomplished American actor known for his distinctive voice and commanding screen presence. He was born on March 18, 1926, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Graves’ career spanned over six decades, during which he became a household name, particularly for his role as Jim Phelps in the television series “Mission: Impossible,” a role he played from 1967 to 1973 and again from 1988 to 1990. He was the younger brother of actor James Arness, known for his role in the television series “Gunsmoke.” Graves’ career was marked by versatility, with roles in both television and film. He starred in the 1950s TV series “Fury” and appeared in numerous movies, including the 1980 comedy “Airplane!” where he played Captain Clarence Oveur. His performance in “Airplane!” showcased his adeptness at comedy, a departure from his typical serious roles. Graves was also a notable television host, lending his voice to the A&E series “Biography,” which profiled famous personalities. His contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with a Golden Globe Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Peter Graves passed away on March 14, 2010, in Pacific Palisades, California, just four days before his 84th birthday. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances and remains a beloved figure in American television history.

5 Interesting Facts about Peter Graves

1. Peter Graves was the younger brother of James Arness, who played Marshal Matt Dillon in the TV series “Gunsmoke.”

2. Graves’ birth name was Peter Duesler Aurness; he changed his last name to Graves, his maternal grandfather’s name, to avoid confusion with his brother.

3. He won a Golden Globe Award for his role in “Mission: Impossible.”

4. Graves was an accomplished pilot and often flew his own plane.

5. He was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity at the University of Minnesota.