Ralph Waite

Born: 22 June 1929
Where: White Plains, New York

Most famed for his perfect paternal role as John 'Pa' Walton in The Waltons, Ralph Waite was actually a practising Presbyterian minister before embarking on a career in showbiz - not an obvious career progression but one that obviously worked out for Ralph.

After a rousing performance as Jack Nicholson's impotent brother in Five Easy Pieces, the roles came pouring in for Ralph.

Cue the nine season run of The Waltons which may not have made Ralph a household name but it certainly held him in good stead for one of the most recognised TV dads in America.

Since saying 'g'night John-boy' to The Waltons Ralph has taken to writing and directing as well as staring in the odd Hollywood blockbuster.

Ralph unsuccessfully ran for Congress in California to fill the unexpired term of the late Sonny Bono, but was defeated by Mary Bono, (Sonny's widow) in 1998.