WAS DAN BLOCKER BURIED IN A PIANO BOX - trunking

Was Dan Blocker Buried in a Piano Box? The Truth Behind the Legend

No, Dan Blocker, the beloved Hoss Cartwright from Bonanza, was not buried in a piano box. This is a recurring rumor, but his actual burial was in a standard casket and grave. The myth likely stems from his large stature and a dark joke about needing an extra-large container.

Let's explore the facts surrounding Dan Blocker's life and death to understand the origin and debunking of this persistent rumor.

Dan Blocker's Life and Career

Dan Blocker was born in De Kalb, Texas, in 1928. He was known for his imposing physical presence – standing at 6'4" and weighing over 300 pounds – which he used to great effect in his acting career. His most famous role was as Hoss Cartwright on the long-running television series Bonanza. Blocker's portrayal of the gentle giant endeared him to audiences worldwide, solidifying his place in television history. You can learn more about his life and career on his Wikipedia page. warriors history

The Circumstances of His Death

Tragically, Dan Blocker died on May 13, 1972, at the age of 43, due to a pulmonary embolism following gallbladder surgery. His sudden death shocked fans and colleagues alike. warriors the darkest hour The loss of Blocker deeply affected the cast and crew of Bonanza, and the show continued for only one more season after his passing.

The Origin of the Piano Box Rumor

The rumor that Dan Blocker was buried in a piano box likely arose from a combination of factors. First, his large size made it conceivable, in a morbidly humorous way, that a standard casket might not have been sufficient. was james pendrick a real person Second, word of mouth can often distort the truth, especially surrounding tragic events. The joke, twisted through retelling and a fascination with the unusual, became the widespread rumor. was luke grimes in the military

The Truth About His Burial

Despite the enduring myth, Dan Blocker was buried in a standard casket at a private service. There is no credible evidence to support the claim that a piano box was used. Official sources, including family members and news reports from the time, confirm a traditional burial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Dan Blocker buried?

Dan Blocker is buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, California.

What was the cause of Dan Blocker's death?

Dan Blocker died of a pulmonary embolism following gallbladder surgery.

How tall was Dan Blocker?

Dan Blocker was 6 feet 4 inches tall.

Did Bonanza continue after Dan Blocker's death?

Bonanza continued for one more season after Dan Blocker's death.

Was Dan Blocker's death written into Bonanza?

No, the character of Hoss Cartwright was simply written out of the show after Dan Blocker's death.

Summary

The story of Dan Blocker being buried in a piano box is a myth. While his large stature may have contributed to the rumor's origin, he was, in fact, buried in a standard casket. His legacy lives on through his memorable performance as Hoss Cartwright on Bonanza and the numerous fans who continue to cherish his work.