Bobby Sherman, a teen idol from Santa Monica, California, rose to fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born on July 22, 1943, he became a household name with his clean-cut image and boy-next-door appeal.
As a singer, Sherman had a series of successful singles, notably the million-seller “Little Woman” in 1969. By the end of 1972, he had achieved no. 1 hits and accumulated seven gold singles, one platinum single, and 10 gold albums in the music industry.
Sherman’s career spanned music, television, and film, making him a recognizable figure in Los Angeles and beyond. He eventually left show business for a career as a paramedic and deputy sheriff, but performed occasionally into the 1990s.
Key Takeaways
- Bobby Sherman was a prominent teen idol of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
- He achieved significant success with his music, earning multiple gold and platinum records.
- Sherman’s clean-cut image resonated with young audiences, particularly teenage girls.
- He transitioned from a career in entertainment to emergency services.
- Sherman’s legacy extends beyond his chart success, influencing the broader teen idol phenomenon.
The Meteoric Rise of Bobby Sherman
The journey of Bobby Sherman from an ordinary teenager to a teen idol is a fascinating tale of talent and opportunity. With his charming appearance and charismatic presence, Sherman quickly captured the hearts of young audiences.
Early Life and Discovery
Sherman’s path to stardom began in Santa Monica, California, where he was discovered for his talent. His early life played a significant role in shaping his future career.
From Santa Monica to Stardom
Sherman’s transition from Santa Monica to stardom was facilitated by his talent and the opportunities he seized. His rise was swift, and he soon became a familiar face on television.
Sal Mineo’s Influence
The influence of Sal Mineo, a well-known actor, on Sherman’s early career was significant. Mineo’s guidance helped Sherman navigate the entertainment industry.
Breakthrough on “Here Come the Brides”
Sherman’s breakthrough role came with the ABC-TV series “Here Come the Brides,” where he played Jeremy Bolt. This role catapulted him to fame.
Jeremy Bolt Character
As Jeremy Bolt, Sherman showcased his acting abilities, winning over the hearts of the show’s viewers. His character’s popularity contributed significantly to the show’s success.
Fan Phenomenon
The fan phenomenon surrounding Sherman was unprecedented. He received reportedly 25,000 letters weekly, a testament to his impact on young viewers.
- The volume of fan mail demonstrated Sherman’s extraordinary influence on his audience.
- Sherman’s image regularly appeared in teen magazines, cementing his status as a teen idol.
- The fan culture surrounding Sherman set a precedent for future teen idols.
As a teen idol, Sherman’s popularity transcended television, with fans demonstrating their devotion through fan clubs, merchandise, and concerts.
Chart-Topping Success in Music
As a teen idol, Bobby Sherman’s popularity soared with his hit singles and albums. His music career was characterized by significant chart-topping success, extensive touring, and a devoted fan base.
Hit Singles That Defined an Era
Bobby Sherman released several hit singles that contributed to his fame. Two notable examples are discussed below.
“Little Woman” and First Gold Records
“Little Woman” was one of Sherman’s early hits, achieving significant commercial success and earning him his first Gold Record.
Million-Selling Hits
Sherman continued to release million-selling hits, further cementing his status as a teen idol. Some of his notable songs include:
- “Easy Come, Easy Go”
- “Jennifer”
- “La La La (If I Had You)”
Album Success and Tours
Sherman’s success wasn’t limited to singles; his albums also achieved significant success, and he toured extensively to promote his music.
Gold Albums and Performances
Many of Sherman’s albums went gold, reflecting his widespread popularity. His live performances were highly anticipated events, often selling out:
- Sellout crowds at concerts
- Extensive touring across the United States and internationally
- Legendary fan reactions at his live shows
The intense fan reactions at Sherman’s concerts were a hallmark of his live performances, creating a unique experience for his fans.
Beyond Music: Acting Career and Transitions
After achieving success as a singer, Bobby Sherman turned his attention to acting, appearing in various television shows and films. This transition marked a new chapter in his entertainment career, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Television and Film Appearances
Bobby Sherman’s foray into acting included roles in popular television series and movies. He became a familiar face on TV, captivating audiences with his charm and talent.
“Getting Together” and Other Shows
One of his notable roles was in the television series “Getting Together,” where he starred alongside fellow teen idol, Davison. Sherman also made guest appearances on other shows, further establishing his presence in the television landscape.
Movie Roles and Guest Appearances
In addition to his television work, Sherman appeared in films and made guest appearances on various programs. His acting career, while not as long-lived as his music career, was nonetheless a significant part of his professional journey.
The Unexpected Career Change
Bobby Sherman’s career took another dramatic turn when he transitioned from the entertainment industry to public service. He became a technical Reserve Police Officer with the Los Angeles Police Department in the 1990s.
From “Emergency!” to Real-Life Emergency Services
Sherman’s interest in emergency services was likely influenced by his role on the popular series “Emergency!”. He later became a medical training officer at the Los Angeles Police Academy, teaching first aid and CPR to thousands of police officers.
Los Angeles Police Department Service
As a Reserve Officer with the Los Angeles Police Department, Sherman was recognized for his contributions, being named LAPD’s Reserve Officer of the Year in 1999. He also served as a reserve deputy sheriff with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, continuing his work in emergency training until his retirement in 2010.
- Sherman’s commitment to public service deepened with his role as a technical Reserve Police Officer, a position he maintained for decades.
- He played a crucial role in training thousands of police officers in first aid and CPR as a medical training officer.
- His contributions were validated through awards, such as being named LAPD’s Reserve Officer of the Year.
- Sherman’s service extended beyond Los Angeles, as he also worked with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Bobby Sherman’s Lasting Legacy
The multifaceted career of Bobby Sherman, from singer to actor to public servant, has left an indelible mark on American culture. As a teen idol of the 1960s, Sherman’s influence extended far beyond his chart-topping hits, such as those featured on “Here Come the Brides.” His legacy encompasses not only his entertainment career but also his humanitarian work, particularly through the Brigitte & Bobby Sherman Children’s Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Brigitte Poublon.
The foundation’s mission to provide quality education and music programs to students in Ghana reflects Sherman’s commitment to creating opportunities for others. His occasional returns to performing, including “The Teen Idol Tour” in 1998-1999, demonstrated the enduring appeal of his music. Sherman’s ranking as No.8 in TV Guide’s list of “TV’s 25 Greatest Teen Idols” in 2005 confirmed his lasting cultural significance.
Through his diverse pursuits, including his work as a deputy and reserve officer, Sherman created a meaningful legacy that transcends his initial fame. His life story serves as an inspiring example of reinvention and contribution across multiple fields. The announcement of his stage 4 kidney cancer diagnosis in March 2025 and his subsequent passing on June 24, 2025, brought renewed attention to his multifaceted career and lasting impact.
FAQ
What was Bobby Sherman’s profession?
Bobby Sherman was a singer, songwriter, and actor who rose to fame in the 1960s as a teen idol.
What was the title of the TV series that Bobby Sherman appeared in?
Bobby Sherman appeared in the TV series “Here Come the Brides.”
What were some of Bobby Sherman’s hit singles?
Some of his hit singles include “Easy Come, Easy Go” and “Little Woman.”
Why did Bobby Sherman retire from the entertainment industry?
Bobby Sherman retired from the entertainment industry to pursue a career in law enforcement, becoming a deputy sheriff in the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department.
What is the Sherman Children’s Foundation?
The Sherman Children’s Foundation is a charitable organization established by Bobby Sherman and his wife, Brigitte, to support children’s welfare.
Is Bobby Sherman still involved in the music industry?
No, Bobby Sherman is no longer actively involved in the music industry, having retired to focus on his law enforcement career and philanthropic efforts.
