Chad Everett and Shelby Grant, two beloved actors of the 1970s, were more than just performers. They embodied the vows they had taken: “…for better, for worse…to love and to cherish, till death do us part.” In a charming love story, Everett and Grant were married for 45 years and remained devoted to one another until Grant’s sudden passing in 2011.

Raymon Lee Cramton, later known as Chad Everett, started his career with Warner Bros. He was given the name Chad Everett by Rock Hudson’s agent Henry Willson, who recognized his talent and potential. According to Everett, the change was necessary as his original name, Raymon Cramton, was confusing: “Raymon, no ‘d,’ Cramton, no ‘p.'”

With his stunning blue eyes and ruggedly attractive looks, Everett made his television debut in the 1960s in an episode of Surfside 6. He went on to star in several popular shows, including The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, Melrose Place, Cold Case, Supernatural, and Castle. He also made memorable appearances in movies such as Mulholland Drive, Psycho, Airplane II: The Sequel, and The Singing Nun.

However, it was his portrayal of the surgeon in the impeccably tailored scrubs that made him a household name in Hollywood.

Everett’s big break came when he was cast as Dr. Joe Gannon in the medical drama Medical Center, which aired from 1969 to 1976. The award-winning show, called “Calling Dr. Gannon,” was the top medical program on television until George Clooney and E.R. took over the spot.

Fans were captivated by Everett’s chiseled cheekbones and irresistible charm. But despite his popularity, Everett only had eyes for one woman – his beloved wife, Shelby Grant, whom he first encountered at the Riverside 500 race. They fell in love at first sight and their love story unfolded with passion and devotion.

Everett and Grant exchanged vows in 1966 and were blessed with two daughters, Shannon and Katherine (Kate). Grant eventually left her acting career to focus on raising their family. Throughout their marriage, Everett and Grant reaffirmed their love by renewing their wedding vows every seven years, with their daughters as the officiants. Their love was genuine and unwavering.

Despite his success in Hollywood, Everett always prioritized his family. He cherished the time spent together on their ranch, engaging in various activities like playing tennis, swimming, horseback riding, and watching football games as a family.

However, life isn’t always just the “better” moments. The “for worse” sometimes follows too. Everett, who owned a significant portion of Medical Center, found himself with extra wealth when the show ended. This abundance led him to become too comfortable, and in 1986, his wife confronted him about his drinking addiction.

Everett recognized the need for change and decided to face his addiction with the support of his family, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and his unwavering faith. His wife, Grant, stood by his side through it all, never once threatening to leave. She reassured him of her constant presence and commitment. With his daughters by his side, Everett took his fight against alcoholism to heart, demonstrating to them the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction.

Their unity and resilience as a family were tested even further when Sheila Scott, who claimed that Everett fathered her son Dale, hounded them with threats and harassment for many years. Scott was finally instructed by a judge to cease her public criticisms of Everett, but even after his passing, she continued to attack his daughters on Twitter.

Everett faced yet another battle when he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He fought bravely, but tragically lost his life in 2012 at the age of 75. He is survived by his two daughters and six grandchildren.

Beyond his fame and success, Everett understood that what truly mattered in life was the love he shared with his wife and the bonds he formed with his children and grandchildren. His wife and daughters were always the most important people in his life, and he never failed to make them feel special and cherished.

Did you ever catch Medical Center on television? We would love to hear your cherished memories of Chad Everett!

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