Bobby Buntrock, the beloved child actor from the 1960s sitcom Hazel, captured hearts with his charming portrayal of Harold “Sport” Baxter. Making his debut at just eight years old, Buntrock quickly became a fan favorite as the pint-sized sidekick to the family’s live-in maid, Shirley Booth, on the NBC show.
Hazel ran for five successful seasons until April 1966, with Buntrock appearing in every episode. Even when his TV parents, Don DeFore and Whitney Blake, left the show in Season 5, Buntrock remained a constant presence as the lovable Sport. The sitcom aimed to bring joy to viewers, with Blake expressing that they focused on lighthearted, happy problems rather than deep issues.
During Hazel’s peak popularity, Buntrock ventured into commercials, appearing in a 1963 Ford Falcon station wagon ad alongside Blake. He also featured in early ads for the iconic 1960s toy Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots. Despite his success on Hazel, Buntrock only had one other acting credit, appearing in three episodes of The Virginian as a young teen.
Tragically, on April 7, 1974, Buntrock passed away at the young age of 21. The former child star drowned in the Battle Creek River after a one-car accident in Keystone, South Dakota. Buntrock had been living in South Dakota for five years, graduating from high school there in 1970. Mourning his loss were his father, Robert Buntrock, and sisters Stella and Deanne.
Bobby Buntrock’s journey to stardom began in the neighborhood where he grew up, with neighbors convincing his parents to get him into acting. Born in Denver, Buntrock’s family later moved to Whittier, Calif., where his talent was discovered. Signed with agent Marcella Bell, Buntrock embarked on a successful acting career, balancing his on-screen work with school. Despite his TV fame, Buntrock’s father described him as a regular kid who enjoyed playing the accordion and baseball, excelling in arithmetic.
In the end, Bobby Buntrock’s legacy as a talented child actor lives on, remembered for his vibrant performances on Hazel and his brief but impactful presence in the entertainment industry.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.