Greg Evigan, born on October 14, 1953, in South Amboy, New Jersey, is an American actor and musician whose career has spanned more than four decades. Best known for his starring roles in beloved television shows such as B.J. and the Bear, My Two Dads, and TekWar, Evigan has carved out a unique place in the entertainment industry with his charm, versatility, and easy-going charisma.
Throughout his career, Evigan has been able to transition seamlessly between action-packed roles, family comedies, and science fiction adventures, earning him a dedicated fanbase. His broad range of talents extends beyond acting, as he is also a skilled singer and musician. As a result, Evigan remains a staple of classic television and continues to be a beloved figure for audiences who grew up watching him on their screens in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.
Early Life and Journey to Hollywood
Gregory Ralph Evigan was born and raised in South Amboy, New Jersey, where his love for performance started at an early age. Growing up in a musically inclined household, Evigan began honing his talents in both acting and music as a teenager. He attended Sayreville War Memorial High School, where he was heavily involved in school plays and local theater productions. His early exposure to performing arts would become the foundation for his eventual Hollywood success.
Following his high school graduation, Evigan decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, focusing on both acting and music. His passion for singing and playing instruments — particularly the piano and saxophone — would later come into play throughout his acting career. By the early 1970s, Evigan moved to New York City, where he began his professional career in theater, landing roles in major productions.
Broadway Beginnings: Jesus Christ Superstar and Grease
Before making his mark on television, Greg Evigan made his Broadway debut in the iconic rock musical Jesus Christ Superstar in 1971. His performance in the ensemble cast showcased his ability to perform on stage, both as an actor and a vocalist. It was during this time that Evigan’s talents were further recognized, opening up more opportunities in theater.
Evigan’s next significant role came when he joined the Broadway production of Grease in 1972. He played the character Danny Zuko, the rebellious leader of the T-Birds gang, a role that had become one of the most coveted in musical theater. His time in Grease allowed him to showcase his singing ability and stage presence, which caught the attention of television producers.
These early theater roles gave Evigan the experience and exposure needed to transition into television, where he would become a household name.
B.J. and the Bear: Evigan’s Breakout Role
Greg Evigan’s big break came in 1979 when he was cast as the lead in the NBC television series B.J. and the Bear. The action-comedy series followed the adventures of B.J. McKay, a free-spirited trucker who traveled across the country with his pet chimpanzee, Bear. B.J., a Vietnam War veteran, often found himself involved in various schemes and misadventures while battling corrupt law enforcement officers along the way.
Evigan’s portrayal of B.J. McKay made him an instant hit with audiences. His combination of rugged good looks, charm, and easygoing demeanor endeared him to viewers, and B.J. and the Bear quickly became a favorite among fans of 1970s television. The show’s blend of action, humor, and heart, combined with the unique dynamic between B.J. and Bear, helped it stand out from other series of the era.
B.J. and the Bear ran for three seasons from 1979 to 1981, during which time it became a staple of NBC’s lineup. Evigan’s performance solidified his status as a television star, and the show’s success paved the way for his future leading roles in television.
My Two Dads: A Beloved Family Sitcom
In 1987, Greg Evigan took on a role that would once again catapult him to television stardom, this time in the family comedy My Two Dads. The show, which aired on NBC from 1987 to 1990, centered around two men, Joey Harris (played by Evigan) and Michael Taylor (played by Paul Reiser), who are awarded joint custody of a teenage girl, Nicole Bradford (played by Staci Keanan), after the death of her mother, with the paternity of Nicole remaining unknown.
Evigan’s character, Joey, was a laid-back artist and musician, while Reiser’s character was a more uptight and responsible figure, creating a comedic odd-couple dynamic. The show balanced humor and heartfelt moments as the two men navigated the challenges of raising a teenager together.
My Two Dads was a hit with audiences and became known for its touching exploration of non-traditional family dynamics. Evigan’s portrayal of Joey highlighted his comedic timing and his ability to bring warmth and sincerity to the role. His chemistry with both Reiser and Keanan made the show a favorite among family sitcoms of the late 1980s, and it remains a nostalgic classic for many viewers.
Venturing into Sci-Fi: TekWar and Beyond
After his success in comedy and action-oriented roles, Greg Evigan shifted to the world of science fiction with his starring role in TekWar, a series based on the novels written by William Shatner. The show aired in the mid-1990s, first as a series of television movies and later as a weekly series. Evigan played the role of Jake Cardigan, a former cop who is framed for dealing an illegal drug called “Tek” and subsequently sent to cryogenic prison.
In TekWar, Evigan’s character embarks on a mission to clear his name and fight against a future society plagued by the virtual drug trade. His performance as the heroic, tough, yet vulnerable Jake Cardigan showcased his ability to tackle complex, futuristic roles. While TekWar may not have reached the same level of mainstream success as some of his previous shows, it found a dedicated audience and became a part of 1990s science fiction television culture.
Evigan’s ability to move from action to comedy and then to science fiction demonstrated his impressive versatility as an actor, making him a memorable figure across multiple genres of television.
Music and Other Career Highlights
Beyond his acting work, Greg Evigan has always maintained a deep connection to music. Throughout his career, Evigan has composed and performed music for various projects, including some of the television shows in which he starred. His love for music has remained a central part of his life, and his background as a musician has often complemented his roles, especially in My Two Dads, where his character was also a musician.
In addition to his most notable roles, Evigan has appeared in numerous other television shows and films, including guest-starring spots on popular series like Melrose Place, JAG, Touched by an Angel, and CSI: Miami. He has also appeared in various made-for-television movies, further showcasing his ability to adapt to different formats and genres.
Family Life and Legacy
Greg Evigan’s personal life has been just as fulfilling as his professional career. He married actress Pamela Serpe in 1979, and the couple has three children, two of whom—Briana Evigan and Jason Evigan—have followed in their father’s footsteps by pursuing careers in the entertainment industry. Briana is a well-known actress and dancer, while Jason is a successful music producer and songwriter.
Evigan’s legacy in television is one of consistency, versatility, and charm. From his days as the adventurous trucker in B.J. and the Bear to his heartwarming role as a father figure in My Two Dads, and his foray into the future with TekWar, Evigan has left an indelible mark on audiences across generations.
As a performer who has thrived in both comedic and dramatic roles, Greg Evigan’s work continues to be appreciated by fans who fondly remember his contributions to some of television’s most beloved series. His enduring presence in the entertainment world, both as an actor and a musician, ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come.