Jim McMullan was a talented and versatile American actor whose career spanned decades, leaving behind a diverse legacy of roles in television and film. Known for his charismatic presence, easy charm, and ability to adapt to a wide range of characters, McMullan built a career that resonated with audiences from the late 1960s through the 1980s. For fans of classic television, his name is forever connected with his role as Officer Don Burdick in the ABC action-crime series Chopper One, but his career went far beyond the cockpit of a police helicopter.

Early Life and Path to Acting

Born on October 13, 1936, in Long Beach, New York, Jim McMullan’s journey to acting wasn’t a straight line. Before Hollywood, McMullan studied at New York University and pursued design and architecture. His interest in acting came later, when he was discovered while visiting Hollywood. His classic leading-man looks and natural charisma opened the door to opportunities on both the big and small screens.

Breaking into Film

McMullan’s film career began in the early 1960s, when he made his screen debut in the 1963 romantic comedy The Secret Life of an American Wife. His early movie work often saw him cast in roles that required a blend of charm and ruggedness.

In 1971, McMullan landed a role in The Windsplitter, a drama that gave him a chance to play a more complex character. While much of his fame would come from television, his film credits included appearances in notable titles such as Downhill Racer (1969), a Robert Redford sports drama, and The Incredible Shrinking Woman (1981), where his comedic timing stood out.

Television Fame in the 1970s

The 1970s marked a major turning point for McMullan, as television became his primary stage. He guest-starred in some of the most popular shows of the era, bringing depth and charisma to his roles. Audiences saw him in episodes of The Mod Squad, Cannon, The Rookies, The F.B.I., and Medical Center.

His talent for blending authority with relatability made him a natural choice for police and detective roles. This would prove especially true when he was cast as Officer Don Burdick in Chopper One in 1974.

Chopper One – Taking Crime Fighting to the Skies

Chopper One was a unique entry in the 1970s crime drama landscape. Produced by Spelling-Goldberg Productions, the series followed the adventures of a police helicopter unit in Southern California. McMullan’s character, Don Burdick, was the experienced, steady-handed pilot partnered with the younger Officer Gil Foley, played by Dirk Benedict.

The show stood out for its aerial action sequences, using the Bell 206 JetRanger to provide a different perspective on crime fighting. While Chopper One ran for only 13 episodes, it remains a nostalgic favorite for fans of vintage TV and an important milestone in McMullan’s career. His portrayal of Burdick gave the character a balance of authority, coolness under pressure, and a quiet warmth that viewers appreciated.

Expanding His TV Roles

After Chopper One, McMullan continued to work steadily in television. He became known as a dependable guest star, capable of stepping into a wide variety of roles. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he appeared in shows such as Dallas, The Love Boat, Hawaii Five-O, and CHiPs.

In Dallas, McMullan played Senator Andrew Dowling, a recurring role that allowed him to share the screen with the powerhouse cast of the iconic primetime soap. His work on The Love Boat often showcased his lighter side, as the show’s romantic and comedic plots gave him a chance to play charming suitors and likable characters.

He also appeared in Charlie’s Angels, Barnaby Jones, and Fantasy Island, further cementing his status as a familiar and well-regarded face on network television.

Memorable Mini-Series and Made-for-TV Movies

The 1980s saw McMullan continue to thrive in television, particularly in mini-series and made-for-TV movies. He had a role in Wheels (1978), a drama centered on the automotive industry, and appeared in Women in White (1979), a medical drama mini-series.

One of his most notable performances came in The Winds of War (1983), the epic World War II mini-series based on Herman Wouk’s novel. Sharing the screen with Robert Mitchum and Ali MacGraw, McMullan contributed to one of the most ambitious television projects of its time.

Film Roles in the 1980s

While television was his primary medium, McMullan continued to make appearances in films throughout the 1980s. In The Incredible Shrinking Woman (1981), starring Lily Tomlin, he demonstrated a playful comedic energy. He also appeared in Assassination (1987), alongside Charles Bronson, showing his range in action-oriented stories.

Style and On-Screen Persona

Jim McMullan had a screen presence that was equal parts approachable and authoritative. He often played characters who were calm under pressure, whether in the cockpit of a police helicopter or navigating political intrigue in Dallas.

His height, athletic build, and classic good looks made him a natural fit for leading roles, but it was his ability to bring subtle emotion to his performances that made him memorable. Whether as a hero, a mentor, or a romantic lead, McMullan’s characters always had a touch of humanity.

Later Career and Guest Appearances

Through the 1990s and into the early 2000s, McMullan remained active in both television and film. He appeared in shows like Melrose Place, Columbo, JAG, and Profiler. His ability to adapt to newer television styles while retaining the charm of his earlier performances allowed him to connect with multiple generations of viewers.

In his later years, McMullan took on roles in independent films and continued making occasional television appearances, proving his lasting appeal and professionalism in the industry.

Remembering His Legacy

Jim McMullan passed away on May 31, 2019, at the age of 82, leaving behind a career that touched fans of classic television and film alike. His work in Chopper One remains a highlight for vintage TV enthusiasts, capturing a unique moment in 1970s television history when networks experimented with fresh takes on the police drama formula.

Beyond that, his body of work represents a time when television actors were household names, their faces instantly recognizable in living rooms across America. McMullan embodied the qualities that made TV stars of his era so beloved: reliability, charm, and a sense of connection with the audience.

Why Jim McMullan Still Resonates with Fans

  1. A Bridge Between Eras – McMullan’s career connected the procedural dramas of the 1970s with the glossy primetime soaps and mini-series of the 1980s.

  2. Memorable Roles Across Genres – From action series like Chopper One to romantic guest appearances on The Love Boat, his range kept him in demand.

  3. Collaborations with Hollywood Greats – Working alongside stars like Robert Mitchum, Charles Bronson, and Lily Tomlin showed his adaptability and skill.

  4. A Nostalgic Connection – For many viewers, McMullan’s characters evoke the style, tone, and optimism of classic television.

Jim McMullan’s career is a testament to the enduring appeal of television’s golden and silver ages. Whether soaring above the city in Chopper One, sparring in political intrigue on Dallas, or appearing in the era’s most beloved guest spots, he left behind a body of work that continues to engage, entertain, and inspire classic TV fans.