Tribute to Jim Mitchum

James “Jim” Mitchum, known for his role in “Thunder Road” and as the son of Hollywood legend Robert Mitchum, has died at the age of 84.

He passed away on September 20th at his ranch in Skull Valley, Arizona, following a prolonged illness. His wife, Pamela K. Smith, was with him during his final moments.

Born in Los Angeles on May 8, 1941, Jim was the son of Robert Mitchum and Dorothy Spence. He made his acting debut as a child in the 1949 western “Colorado Territories,” sharing the screen with actors like Dorothy Malone and Virginia Mayo.

At just 16, he took on the role of Robin Dorin in Arthur Ripley’s cult classic “Thunder Road,” a part that was originally intended for Elvis Presley. This film depicted a Southern whiskey runner grappling with federal agents.

In “Thunder Road,” Jim’s character was a mechanic, which sparked his interest in stock car racing; he even had a brief stint working on Elvis’s car.

After forming a connection with Presley, Jim signed with 20th Century Fox and released the single “Lonely Birthday” in 1961, although it didn’t lead to any major success, and he eventually stepped back from music.

Jim featured in various films throughout his career, including “Beat Generation,” “Ride the Wild Surf,” and “Harms Way.” He had the chance to work alongside other notable actors such as John Wayne and Kirk Douglas.

His acting career saw him star in the 1975 action comedy “Moon Runner.” After retiring in 1994, Jim relocated to Arizona to manage his parents’ horse ranch.

Robert Mitchum, Jim’s father, passed away in 1997, and his mother Dorothy followed in 2014. Jim was married three times; he had a son, Will, from his first marriage to actress Wende Wagner. His second marriage to Vivian Ferand produced two children, Brian and Caitlyn, before they divorced in 1995. He met his third wife, Pamela, in 1993 and tied the knot early this year.