Jared Martin, actor in 'Dallas,' dies at 75
The Philadelphia resident cofounded Big Picture Alliance.
Jared Martin, 75, an actor known for his role as Dusty Farlow in the hit TV series Dallas, died Wednesday, May 24, at his Philadelphia home of pancreatic cancer.
Mr. Martin was a familiar face in television during the 1960s and '80s, with roles in Dan August, Night Gallery, Medical Center, The Six Million Dollar Man, How the West Was Won, and War of the Worlds.
Mr. Martin was born in New York and began acting at age 13 in a local children's theater group. He later attended Columbia University, honing his acting skills by taking part in plays and experimental films. After graduating, he worked as a copy boy and thumbnail book reviewer for the New York Times.
Mr. Martin acted Off-Broadway and worked several odd jobs before scoring roles in Westworld, Men of the Dragon, and The Fantastic Journey. When he received the role of heartthrob Dusty Farlow in Dallas, he became a favorite to fans of that hit show.
During that time, he also starred in European films, made an appearance on One Life to Live, and worked on two novels. When he moved to Philadelphia in 1997, he cofounded Big Picture Alliance, a nonprofit media-arts organization geared toward youths in the region. Mr. Martin worked as creative director of the organization, helping to produce 250 student films.
"He felt art should be available to everybody," son Christian Martin said. "He got a great sense of joy being able to bring that to folks, especially in Philly."
His son said that many of Mr. Martin's former students went on to pursue careers in the arts, and that during his father's last days, former students visited him to say thank you.
"We all need and want mentors," the son said. "He felt blessed with the ability to be a mentor to these kids."
In addition to his son, Mr. Martin is survived by his wife, Yu Wei, and two grandchildren.