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Born in Oklahoma City, Don Chastain moved to Hollywood in the late 1950s and landed roles on such popular television series as The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Rhoda, Hawaii Five-O, and Gunsmoke. Making the move to the bright lights of Broadway shortly thereafter, Don found further success while winning the lead in No Strings before he was cast in Parade and 42nd Street, among others. A popular soap opera actor in the 1980s and '90s, Don appeared in Another World, One Life to Live, and As the World Turns before getting roles in such popular television series as The West Wing and Murder in Small Town X. As a singer, Don performed with Jon Hendricks and Count Basie's Band.
Don was bigger than life. A career as a performer was a perfect choice for him. He was frequently heard singing at jazz clubs. So impressive was his talent that from the beginning of his career he worked with the very best in show business. He was a icon in the New York musical theater for many years, and moved easily to and from Hollywood where he gained prominence as a motion picture actor. He worked in television in Los Angeles and New York and toured the United States and Canada with major productions. Leading ladies, including Katherine Hepburn, Lauren Bacall, Debbie Reynolds, Tuesday Weld, Elizabeth Ashley, Barbara Eden, and Edie Adams, were delighted to work opposite him on stage and in television.
Don had a real love for jazz and was a great jazz singer. He brought ten thousand people to their feet with his version of Bye Bye Blackbird at the Monterey Jazz Festival. Count Basie and the band was playing behind him. It was there that he became a friend of Joe Williams. When one of the premier jazz vocal acts of all time, Lambert, Hendricks, and Ross, lost Dave Lambert to a fatal auto accident, Jon Hendricks called Don to work with them. He was still singing along with Bill Evans and Miles Davis the last days of his life.
His talent did not end with music and drama. He was also a writer of eloquent song lyrics and excellent poetry. Best of all, Don never quit being a regular guy. He was a proud and loyal Oklahoman.
Don served in the U.S. Army, loved riding horses, driving snowmobiles, and was always seen wearing a truckers cap. He was a gentle, caring man and loved his family.
Don is survived by his wife, Jill Diamond Chastain and his son Colin. We extend heartfelt sympathy to all of the family and friends of Don.
Jill Diamond is now the Chair of the WBC, NABF, WBCares and the Female Championship Committee of the WBC.
VIEW THE CREDITS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF DON CHASTAIN!" (Click!)
His Memory Will Live on Forever.
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