Jon-Erik Hexum

Jon-Erik Hexum, born on November 5, 1957, in Englewood, New Jersey, was an American actor and model whose rise to fame in the early 1980s marked him as a star on the brink of major success. Known for his striking good looks, charismatic presence, and natural talent, Hexum quickly garnered attention in both the fashion and entertainment industries. His life, tragically cut short by a fatal on-set accident in 1984, left many wondering what might have been had his promising career not been cut short. Hexum’s brief but impactful time in the spotlight left a lasting legacy and continues to resonate with fans and viewers decades later.

Early Life and Education

Jon-Erik Hexum was born to Gretha and Thorleif Hexum, who were of Norwegian descent. He and his older brother, Gunnar, were raised by their mother after their parents divorced when Hexum was just four years old. Despite the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household, Hexum’s childhood was one filled with aspirations for something greater. Hexum developed a passion for music at a young age, learning to play various instruments, including the violin, trumpet, and piano. He also had a natural aptitude for sports and was an athletic standout in high school.

After graduating from Tenafly High School, Hexum attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where he studied biomedical engineering. However, he soon realized that his true passion lay in the arts, leading him to transfer to Michigan State University, where he pursued a degree in theater and philosophy. It was during his time at Michigan State that Hexum discovered his love for acting, honing his craft in college theater productions and laying the foundation for his future career.

Move to Hollywood and Breakthrough Role in Voyagers!

Following his graduation in 1980, Jon-Erik Hexum made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. With little more than his good looks, charm, and determination, Hexum found work as a model while auditioning for television and film roles. His striking appearance and chiseled features quickly garnered attention in the fashion world, leading to modeling opportunities that helped him gain a foothold in Hollywood.

Hexum’s big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Phineas Bogg, the lead character in the NBC adventure series Voyagers!. The show followed Bogg, a time-traveling adventurer, and a young boy named Jeffrey Jones (played by Meeno Peluce) as they traveled through time correcting historical mistakes. The show was a mix of science fiction, historical drama, and adventure, and it showcased Hexum’s natural talent for physical roles as well as his ability to deliver emotional performances.

As Phineas Bogg, Hexum captivated audiences with his rugged charm, quick wit, and easygoing demeanor. His on-screen chemistry with Meeno Peluce helped drive the show’s appeal, and Voyagers! quickly developed a devoted fanbase. While the series only ran for one season, it made Hexum a household name and established him as a rising star in Hollywood.

Transition to Film and Television Stardom

Following the end of Voyagers!, Hexum continued to work steadily in both television and film, further cementing his status as an actor to watch. In 1984, he was cast in the television movie Making of a Male Model, opposite Joan Collins. The movie, which aired on ABC, told the story of a young man from the Midwest who is discovered by a talent scout and thrust into the glamorous and cutthroat world of high fashion modeling. Hexum’s portrayal of Tyler Burnett, a model navigating the pitfalls of fame and success, showcased his versatility as an actor and further highlighted his ability to carry leading roles.

Making of a Male Model was a critical success, and Hexum’s performance earned him praise for his charismatic screen presence and emotional depth. It also solidified his status as a sex symbol, with his rugged good looks and athletic physique making him a favorite among female audiences. Hexum’s appeal was often compared to other leading men of the time, such as Tom Selleck and Burt Reynolds, and many believed that he was poised to become one of Hollywood’s next big stars.

Cover Up and the Tragic Accident

Hexum’s next major role came later in 1984 when he was cast as Mac Harper in the CBS action-adventure series Cover Up. The show followed Dani Reynolds (played by Jennifer O’Neill), a fashion photographer who teams up with Mac Harper, a former Green Beret working as a secret government agent, to solve cases under the guise of international photo shoots. Hexum’s role as Harper required a mix of action, charm, and humor, and his physicality and good looks made him perfect for the part.

Cover Up quickly gained a following, and Hexum’s performance as the dashing hero solidified his place as a rising action star. However, his time on the show would tragically be cut short due to a fatal on-set accident that shocked both the entertainment industry and his fans.

On October 12, 1984, during a break in filming on the set of Cover Up, Hexum accidentally shot himself with a prop gun loaded with blanks. Reports indicate that he had been joking around with the gun and, unaware of the dangers of blanks, pulled the trigger while holding the gun to his head. The force of the blank cartridge caused a fatal head injury, and Hexum was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared brain-dead six days later, on October 18, 1984. He was only 26 years old.

Legacy and Impact

Jon-Erik Hexum’s death was a devastating loss for his family, friends, colleagues, and fans. His sudden passing shocked the entertainment industry and served as a sobering reminder of the dangers of prop firearms on film and television sets. In the wake of his death, there was a renewed focus on safety measures within the industry, leading to stricter guidelines for handling firearms during production.

Despite his short career, Hexum left a lasting legacy. His portrayal of Phineas Bogg in Voyagers! and Mac Harper in Cover Up made him a beloved figure among fans of 1980s television, and his good looks and charm continue to be remembered by those who watched him rise to fame. Hexum’s work as an actor demonstrated his potential for greatness, and many believe that had he lived, he would have gone on to become one of Hollywood’s top leading men.

In addition to his acting legacy, Hexum’s final act was one of generosity. After being declared brain-dead, his organs were donated, saving the lives of several recipients, including a five-year-old boy who received his heart. This act of kindness underscored the compassionate and caring nature that those who knew Hexum often spoke about.

Personal Life and Character

While much of Jon-Erik Hexum’s public persona was tied to his rugged good looks and action-star roles, those who knew him personally often spoke about his intelligence, kindness, and humility. Hexum was known for his easygoing nature and his deep love of music, having maintained his musical talents throughout his life. He was also described as someone with a strong work ethic and a desire to continue growing as an actor, often taking his craft seriously and pushing himself to improve with each role.

Hexum’s rise to fame was not without its challenges, as he navigated the pressures of Hollywood and the expectations placed upon him as a sex symbol. However, he remained grounded and focused on his goals, never letting fame go to his head. His natural talent, combined with his dedication to his craft, earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans.

Remembering Jon-Erik Hexum

Though Jon-Erik Hexum’s life was tragically cut short, his contributions to the entertainment industry and his enduring appeal remain a part of pop culture history. His performances in Voyagers! and Cover Up continue to be remembered by fans, and his story serves as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the fragility of life.