Lee Aaker was a child actor in the 1950s and ‘60s, best known for starring as Rusty on TV’s “The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin.”
- Died: April 1, 2021 (Who else died on April 1?)
- Details of death: Died near Mesa, Arizona of a stroke at the age of 77.
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Childhood fame and later life
Aaker had been in more than a dozen movies before he got his role on “The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin,” including “Jeopardy,” “Arena,” and a notable role in the John Wayne (1907–1979) film “Hondo.” Later, he made TV appearances on “Rescue 8,” “The Donna Reed Show,” “Make Room for Daddy,” and “The Lucy Show.” Among his final credits before leaving Hollywood was a small role in “Bye Bye Birdie.” Aaker had trouble getting work as an actor after he aged out of child roles. In later years, he was a carpenter and a ski instructor, working as an adaptive sports instructor for people with disabilities.
Tributes to Lee Aaker
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter