Veteran television director Harvey Laidman, known for his work on classic series like "The Waltons" and "Matlock," died on January 3 in Simi Valley, California. He was 82.
His son Dan Laidman confirmed that the director passed away from cancer at a local hospice facility.
Born in Cleveland in 1942, Laidman began his entertainment career working summers with the Kenley Players theater company in Warren, Ohio. After studying at Kent State University, he transferred to USC where he earned a cinema degree in 1964.
His directing career launched in 1975 with "The Waltons," where he went on to direct 11 episodes. Laidman made his biggest mark on "Matlock," helming 33 episodes of the legal drama. His extensive television credits also included episodes of "7th Heaven," "Scarecrow and Mrs. King," "Knight Rider," "Hawaii Five-O," "The Incredible Hulk," and "Quantum Leap."
Beyond his work in television, Laidman maintained a lifelong passion for science and technology. He received his amateur radio license at age 12 and later pursued a doctorate in education. From 2011 until 2023, he shared his filmmaking expertise as a directing instructor at California State University, Northridge.
A memorial service will be held at Mount Sinai Hollywood Hills at 11:00 a.m.