Ricky Nelson was one of the most beloved teen idols of his time and among the most televised musicians of his era. Born Eric Hilliard Nelson in 1940, he grew up on The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, the iconic sitcom starring his parents. Shy and asthmatic as a child, Ricky found fame early and, at just 17, launched a successful music career with hits like “Poor Little Fool,” “Travelin’ Man,” and “Garden Party.”
He married Kristin Harmon in 1963, and together they had four children, including twin sons Matthew and Gunnar. Despite his success, Ricky hated flying but continued touring to meet his fans.
In 1985, Ricky and his twin sons were scheduled to fly together to a New Year’s show in Dallas. At the last moment, a strong premonition led Ricky to call and tell his sons not to join him. He boarded the DC-3 plane alone. Near its destination, a fire filled the cabin with smoke, killing Ricky and others on board, though the pilot managed to land safely. The cause of the fire remains unknown, though mechanical failure is widely believed.
Ricky’s last-minute decision saved his sons’ lives. Matthew and Gunnar later became successful musicians themselves, honoring their father’s legacy. As Matthew said, their music remains “an ongoing labor of love” for the dad they lost too soon.