
David Nelson
ActingAbout David Nelson
David Oswald Nelson (October 24, 1936 – January 11, 2011) was an American actor. He was the elder son of entertainment couple Harriet Hilliard Nelson and Ozzie Nelson and the older brother of musician Ricky Nelson. Nelson's acting career started in 1949 when he and his brother began playing themselves on his parents' radio series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which lasted until 1954. His film debut came in Here Come the Nelsons, released in 1952. Also in 1952 Nelson continued playing himself on the television version of The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which ran until 1966.Starting in the early 1960s, he directed about a dozen episodes of the show. From the 1970s through 1990 Nelson had roles in Smash-Up on Interstate 5, Up In Smoke, The Love Boat, High School U.S.A., and A Family for Joe. Nelson's last film appearance was in John Waters' 1990 film Cry-Baby. Nelson died on January 11, 2011, in Century City, California, of complications of colon cancer.
David Nelson Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of David Nelson reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 21 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of David Nelson's work falls within the Comedy genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 48% of David Nelson's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Love and Kisses, which stands out as a key performance.
Best David Nelson Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from David Nelson's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie David Nelson has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Television: The First Fifty Years | Self (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1995 | The Courtyard | Cop | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | Cry-Baby | Wanda's Father | Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Off the Mark | Current Resident | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | High School U.S.A. | Mr. Krinsky, Janitor | Average | Similar → |
| 1979 | In Search of Historic Jesus | Leper | Average | Similar → |
| 1978 | Up in Smoke | Roxy Doorman | Hit | Similar → |
| 1976 | Smash-Up on Interstate 5 | Berman | Average | Similar → |
| 1974 | Sonic Boom | Co-Pilot | Average | Similar → |
| 1970 | Swing Out, Sweet Land | Union Soldier | Average | Similar → |
| N/A | An LA Christmas Story | Comedy Club Patron | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | The Movie Orgy | Self (archive footage) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1965 | Love and Kisses | Cameo Appearance | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1961 | The Big Show | Eric Solden | Average | Similar → |
| 1959 | -30- | Earl Collins | Average | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Big Circus | Tommy Gordon | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | Disneyland '59 | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | Day of the Outlaw | Gene, Bruhn's Gang | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Remarkable Mr. Pennypacker | Henry Pennypacker | Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | Peyton Place | Ted Carter | Hit | Similar → |
| 1952 | Here Come the Nelsons | David Nelson | Hit | Similar → |
David Nelson - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of David Nelson?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring David Nelson is "Love and Kisses" with a rating of 9.0/10.
How many movies has David Nelson acted in?
David Nelson has been featured in at least 21 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by David Nelson?
Other notable films include "Disneyland '59", "The Remarkable Mr. Pennypacker", and "Here Come the Nelsons".




