Deteriorating Facts About Jan-Michael Vincent, The Haunted Hunk
Jan-Michael Vincent was one of Hollywood’s hottest hunks—but a life of excess grounded this Airwolf.
1. He Went From Handsome To Horrifying
Jan-Michael Vincent was the 1980s heartthrob most famous for portraying Stringfellow Hawke in the popular TV series Airwolf. His muscled, beach-ready body and classic all-American looks catapulted him to stardom. But his addictions, violent behavior, and dumb bad luck took him from handsome to horrifying just as quickly.
2. He Had Bad Blood
Vincent had tragedy written into his DNA. He was born in Denver, Colorado in July 1944 to Lloyd Whiteley Vincent and Doris Jane. His father had served in the US Army during WWII as a pilot. But, there was nothing strait-laced about his family. In fact, Jan-Michael’s father’s side of the family had a dark and violent history.
3. His Uncles Were Bad Guys
Vincent's father, Lloyd, might have served honorably in the US Army during WWII, but he came from bad seeds. As it turns out, Jan-Michael’s grandfather and uncles had staged numerous bank heists throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Ultimately, his uncles met bloody ends at the hands of law enforcement—but Jan-Michael carried on their rebellious tradition.
4. He Was Always A Rebel
Even at the height of his fame, when he had everything to lose but nothing to live for, Jan-Michael refused to play by the rules. His bad boy behavior had started very early.
Growing up, he resented the strict control that the US Army exerted over his father. By contrast, his grandfather seemed like a loving, if radical, free spirit.
He really didn’t want to follow in his father’s footsteps.
