Bobby Sherman was a musical sensation in the 1960s and 1970s, capturing the hearts of millions of adoring fans. Known for his good looks, charming personality, and hit songs, Sherman seemed destined for a life of fame and fortune. However, at the peak of his career, he made a surprising decision that would change the course of his life forever.
Bobby Sherman was born on July 22, 1943, in Santa Monica, California, and grew up in the nearby town of Van Nuys. From a young age, he displayed a remarkable talent for music, mastering the trumpet, piano, trombone, keyboard, and guitar by the age of 11. After graduating from high school in 1961, Sherman enrolled at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, where he would meet the woman who would change the trajectory of his life.
While attending a cast party for the film “The Greatest Story Ever Told,” Sherman seized the opportunity to showcase his vocal talents, standing up and belting out Ray Charles’ “What I’d Say” in front of a room full of celebrities, including Sal Mineo, Natalie Wood, and Jane Fonda. This impromptu performance caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to Sherman’s big break – a starring role in the television series “Shindig.”
Over the next few years, Sherman’s star continued to rise, with appearances on popular shows like “The Monkees,” “Honey West,” and “The FBI.” His breakout role came in 1968 when he landed the part of Jason Bolt in the series “Here Come the Bridges,” a character that resonated deeply with audiences. Soon, Sherman was a household name, selling millions of records and earning legions of devoted fans.
However, at the height of his success, something remarkable happened. While participating in a telethon in Buffalo, Sherman witnessed firsthand the incredible impact his character Jason Bolt had on viewers. It was at that moment that he realized his true calling was not in the entertainment industry, but in the field of medicine.
Determined to make a difference in the world, Sherman made the bold decision to leave the entertainment industry behind and pursue a career in medicine. He enrolled in medical school and dedicated himself to becoming a physician, driven by a desire to save lives and make a tangible impact on his community.
In the annals of entertainment history, few stories are as captivating as that of Bobby Sherman. From his meteoric rise to teen idol status in the 1970s to his unexpected career shift into public service, Sherman’s life has been a testament to the unpredictable nature of fame and the power of personal reinvention.
Born in 1943 in Santa Monica, California, Bobby Sherman initially found success as a singer and actor, starring in the television show “Getting Together” and releasing hit albums like “Sixteen” and “Tiger Beat.” With his boyish good looks and charming persona, Sherman quickly became a heartthrob for millions of adoring fans.
As his fame grew, Sherman made a surprising decision – he constructed a scale model of Disneyland’s Main Street in his own backyard, spending over $15,000 on the project. This elaborate creation, which took him over two and a half years to complete, was a testament to his dedication to providing a magical environment for his two young sons, Tyler and Christopher.
However, the demands of his burgeoning career took a toll on Sherman, who admitted that the hectic schedule “zapped so much out of me.” He often found himself disoriented, never quite sure of his location or what day it was.
In the midst of his success, Sherman made an even more unexpected decision – he chose to leave the entertainment industry altogether and pursue a career in public service. Motivated by a desire to protect his children and inspired by his wife’s fear of blood, Sherman enrolled in first aid and EMT training, eventually becoming a police officer and medical instructor.
Sherman’s transition to a life of public service was marked by acts of remarkable bravery. During the 1994 Northridge earthquake, he rushed to the epicenter in his pickup truck, providing first aid and assistance to those in need. His skill and dedication as a first responder earned him the admiration of his colleagues and the community he served.
Even as he found fulfillment in his new career, Sherman never fully left the entertainment industry behind. He continued to record film and television scores and even made a final television appearance on an episode of “Frasier” in 1997. In the late 1990s, he joined a “Teen Idol Tour,” reuniting with fans who had adored him in his youth.
Today, at the age of 79, Bobby Sherman has lived a life that is as inspiring as it is multifaceted. From his days as a teen idol to his heroic work as a first responder, his story reminds us that true greatness can be found in the most unexpected places. As he once said, “What I’ve done with my life and what I’ve been able to accomplish all comes down to the fact that the fans have blessed me.” It is a testament to the power of following one’s passions, no matter where they may lead.
