David Nelson
ActingAbout David Nelson
David Oswald Nelson (October 24, 1936 – January 11, 2011) was an American actor. He was the elder son of entertainment couple Harriet Hilliard Nelson and Ozzie Nelson and the older brother of musician Ricky Nelson. Nelson's acting career started in 1949 when he and his brother began playing themselves on his parents' radio series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which lasted until 1954. His film debut came in Here Come the Nelsons, released in 1952. Also in 1952 Nelson continued playing himself on the television version of The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which ran until 1966.Starting in the early 1960s, he directed about a dozen episodes of the show. From the 1970s through 1990 Nelson had roles in Smash-Up on Interstate 5, Up In Smoke, The Love Boat, High School U.S.A., and A Family for Joe. Nelson's last film appearance was in John Waters' 1990 film Cry-Baby. Nelson died on January 11, 2011, in Century City, California, of complications of colon cancer.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of David Nelson reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 21 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Comedy
The majority of David Nelson's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 29% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), David Nelson remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Day of the Outlaw, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best David Nelson Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from David Nelson's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of David Nelson.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Television: The First Fifty Years | Self (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1995 | The Courtyard | Cop | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | Cry-Baby | Wanda's Father | Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Off the Mark | Current Resident | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | High School U.S.A. | Mr. Krinsky, Janitor | Flop | Similar → |
| 1979 | In Search of Historic Jesus | Leper | Flop | Similar → |
| 1978 | Up in Smoke | Roxy Doorman | Hit | Similar → |
| 1976 | Smash-Up on Interstate 5 | Berman | Flop | Similar → |
| 1974 | Sonic Boom | Co-Pilot | Flop | Similar → |
| 1970 | Swing Out, Sweet Land | Union Soldier | Average | Similar → |
| N/A | An LA Christmas Story | Comedy Club Patron | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | The Movie Orgy | Self (archive footage) | Average | Similar → |
| 1965 | Love and Kisses | Cameo Appearance | Flop | Similar → |
| 1961 | The Big Show | Eric Solden | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | -30- | Earl Collins | Average | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Big Circus | Tommy Gordon | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | Disneyland '59 | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | Day of the Outlaw | Gene, Bruhn's Gang | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Remarkable Mr. Pennypacker | Henry Pennypacker | Average | Similar → |
| 1957 | Peyton Place | Ted Carter | Hit | Similar → |
| 1952 | Here Come the Nelsons | David Nelson | Average | Similar → |
David Nelson - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of David Nelson?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring David Nelson is "Day of the Outlaw" with a rating of 6.8/10.
How many movies has David Nelson acted in?
David Nelson has been featured in at least 21 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by David Nelson?
Other notable films include "Peyton Place", "Up in Smoke", and "The Big Circus".