Alan Thicke
Alan Thicke: A Life of Music, Laughter, and Inspiration
Full Name and Common Aliases
Alan Wilder Thicke was a Canadian-American actor, musician, songwriter, and television host. He was affectionately known as the "Cool Dad" due to his iconic role in the popular TV show Growing Pains.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on March 1, 1947, Alan Thicke passed away on December 13, 2016, at the age of 69.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Alan Thicke held both Canadian and American citizenship. He was a multifaceted artist who excelled as an actor, musician, songwriter, and television host.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Canada, Alan Thicke developed a passion for music at a young age. His father, Jack Thicke, was a doctor, and his mother, Laurie Jean Wilder, was a nurse. The family later moved to Vancouver, British Columbia, where Alan began taking piano lessons. He eventually attended the University of Western Ontario, but dropped out to pursue a career in music.
Major Accomplishments
Alan Thicke's talent and charisma earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. Some of his notable achievements include:
Growing Pains: He played the lovable and wise father, Dr. Jason Seaver, from 1985 to 1992, making it one of his most iconic roles.
Murder, She Wrote: Thicke guest-starred in several episodes of this popular TV show, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Music Career: As a musician and songwriter, he released several albums, including _A Word or Two_ (1975) and _Paperback Heart_ (1976).
Songwriting Credits: Alan Thicke co-wrote the hit song "Rock Bottom" for the Canadian rock band April Wine.
Notable Works or Actions
Alan Thicke was not only a talented artist but also a devoted husband, father, and philanthropist. Some of his notable works include:
The Alan Thicke Show: He hosted this talk show from 1980 to 1981, featuring interviews with celebrities and musicians.
Love and Laughter: In addition to his acting work, Thicke released a comedy album titled _Love and Laughter_ (1996).
Philanthropy: Alan Thicke supported various charitable organizations, including the Canadian Cancer Society.Impact and Legacy
Alan Thicke's impact on popular culture is still felt today. His iconic role in Growing Pains made him a household name, and his music career left an indelible mark on the industry. As a devoted family man, he set a high standard for fatherhood and commitment.Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Alan Thicke's legacy extends beyond his impressive list of credits. He is widely quoted and remembered for:
His wisdom: Dr. Jason Seaver's philosophical one-liners from Growing Pains continue to inspire and entertain audiences.
His love for music: As a musician, songwriter, and producer, Thicke brought joy and creativity to countless fans through his work.
His family values: His commitment to his loved ones serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the importance of balance in life.
Alan Thicke's life was a testament to the power of creativity, kindness, and dedication. His legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Quotes by Alan Thicke
The two things I hear wherever I go, literally walking down the street, through airports, or in restaurants - it is either 'You raised me,' or 'Fellow Canadian.' Not even a paraphrase - those are the exact remarks.
The way I was parented did affect my parenting - probably in the reverse. My dad was pretty strict, and the next generation probably wants to be less strict.
So there was a constant flow and a thin line there between reality and television and yes, much of what I was experiencing in my real life was also what was going on in the television show to the extent that I had to take writers' advice and from the counselors around.
When I started out, at the CBC in Toronto, there was so little work. It was a different world from what it is now. Now we're blessed with so much production in so many Canadian cities.
One week you may be an actor, and the next week you had to be nimble enough to be a TV host. And the week after that, you might have to do some stand-up or be in an improv company or write and sing a song somewhere.
I was discovered, or mentored, by Norman Lear, who plucked me from the grinder of relative obscurity.
My advice, it's get involved in any and every aspect of the business that affords itself to you.
I did write a lot of TV themes - I wrote about 45 of them, and a couple of which are still reference and popular today, like 'Diff'rent Strokes' and 'Facts of Life.' But I was a limited musician.
In terms of social media, I try to have my voice heard loudly in the cacophony of other influences whether from television and the Internet or social media... I want my voice to be heard in terms of the standards and values that I try to pass on to my kids.
In 'The Goods,' I'm Ed Helms' dad, and I was known all those years as Kirk Cameron's father, and now I'm known as Robin Thicke's father, so I find myself playing myself a lot and, frankly, living up to expectations of what the public's image of me is.