James McEachin

James McEachin, an actor known for his work in 18 different "Perry Mason" TV movies and for performing opposite Clint Eastwood in four of Eastwood's movies, died January 11, 2025, at the age of 94.?

McEachin's distinguished acting career almost never came to be: As a U.S. Army soldier during the Korean War, he was caught in an ambush and left for dead. He and just one other soldier survived. Because his military records were lost, McEachin was not awarded a Purple Heart and Silver Star until 2005. After the war, he briefly wrote music with Otis Redding before turning to acting, appearing in dozens of shows and movies over his nearly 40 years of work. He is best known for appearing in a popular series of Perry Mason television movies, portraying Lt. Brock in 18 productions. He also played opposite Clint Eastwood in "Coogan's Bluff," "Play Misty for Me," "Every Which Way But Loose," and "Sudden Impact." Other work saw him appearing in dozens of popular shows throughout the 1970s, '80s, and '90s, including "All in the Family," "Columbo," "Murder, She Wrote," "Hill Street Blues," and many others.

Fan and actor Ewel Bickham said of him on Facebook, "He had so many talents unmatched by anyone. As an actor, he was in so many film and tv shows, I have so many favorites. I only wish I could've met him in person. I also am a policeman, veteran, and background actor. His life's story has always been an inspiration. Sincere Condolences to his family!"

By Eric San Juan

(Image: Sherman Weisburd/TV Guide/courtesy Everett Collection)