Ricky Nelson wasn’t just a 50s rock-and-roll star—he was an icon, a family man, and, in the end, a hero. Born Eric Hilliard Nelson on May 8, 1940, in Teaneck, New Jersey, Ricky’s star began to shine early. As a young boy, he joined his brother on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, his parents’ beloved sitcom that ran for a stunning 16 years.
While Hollywood High School was his alma mater, Ricky wasn’t much for academics. His father, Ozzie Nelson, had dreams of him attending college, but Ricky’s budding music career had other plans. By his late teens, Ricky was earning over $100,000 annually, making it hard for his parents to argue with his decision to skip higher education.
At just 17, Ricky’s life changed forever. His performance of “I’m Walking” on the show became an instant hit, catapulting him into the world of music stardom. Chart-topping songs like “Travelin’ Man” and “Poor Little Fool” cemented his place in rock history.
In 1963, Ricky married Kristin Harmon, and the couple welcomed four children: Sam, Tracy, and twins Matthew and Gunnar. Their life seemed picture-perfect, but fame and a bohemian lifestyle strained their marriage. The couple eventually divorced, accusing each other of poor parenting.
A Premonition That Changed Everything
Despite his charm and talent, Ricky struggled with a deep fear of flying. Determined to face it, he sought therapy so he could keep touring for his fans. But as 1985 drew to a close, tragedy loomed. Ricky planned to fly with his twin sons to a New Year’s Eve concert in Dallas, but something told him to cancel their trip at the last minute.
“We were supposed to be on that plane,” Gunnar later shared. “Our dad called us right before we were supposed to meet him and fly with him to Dallas.”
The decision saved their lives. Tragically, the DC-3 Ricky boarded with his girlfriend Helen Blaine and others caught fire mid-flight. Although the pilot managed an emergency landing, everyone on board perished. Investigators pointed to a faulty gasoline heater, but the exact cause remains uncertain.
A Legacy That Lives On
Ricky’s instinct spared his sons, allowing them to carry on his legacy. Today, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson are accomplished musicians, keeping their father’s spirit alive through their music.
“It’s an ongoing labor of love, an open letter to our dad, who was our best friend,” Matthew says.
Ricky Nelson’s story is one of talent, heartbreak, and heroism—a bittersweet reminder of the fragile beauty of life.
Do you remember Ricky Nelson or his music? Share this story with someone who would be inspired by his life and legacy.
