Arthur Gardner (born Arthur Goldberg; June 7, 1910 – December 19, 2014) was an American actor who became a prominent film and television producer. He began his career in Hollywood during the early sound era and later cofounded the production company Levy-Gardner-Laven, which produced several influential series and feature films.

Early life and acting

Gardner was born in Marinette, Wisconsin. As a young performer he appeared in bit parts in the late 1920s and early 1930s; one of his earliest screen experiences was in the landmark anti‑war film All Quiet on the Western Front (1930). Over time he transitioned from small acting roles to behind‑the‑camera work, pursuing opportunities in production that would shape the rest of his career.

Levy-Gardner-Laven and production work

In 1951 Gardner joined with partners to form Levy‑Gardner‑Laven, a production company that became known for economical, audience‑driven programming. The company produced several television westerns that were commercially successful and remain associated with the era of 1950s and 1960s network television. Two of their best‑known series are listed below.

  • The Rifleman (1958–1963) — a popular action western centered on a widowed rancher and his son.
  • The Big Valley (1965–1969) — a period drama noted for its ensemble cast and sweeping ranchland setting.

Levy‑Gardner‑Laven also produced feature films. Among titles associated with Gardner are the mid‑1970s action films McQ (1974) and Brannigan (1975), both of which starred John Wayne and reflected the company’s continuing activity in theatrical releases as well as television.

Personal life and legacy

Gardner lived for many years in Beverly Hills, California, and his family included his son, actor Steve Gardner. He was widely noted for the long span of his life and career — a professional arc that bridged early sound cinema and the television boom of the mid‑20th century. At the time of his death in 2014 at age 104 he was reported to be among the last surviving participants connected with the production of early films such as All Quiet on the Western Front.

Gardner’s career is an example of a performer who successfully shifted to production, helping shape popular television genres and bringing economical, audience‑oriented projects to both the small and big screens. His work with Levy‑Gardner‑Laven left a durable mark on mid‑century American entertainment through series that continue to be referenced in histories of the western and television production.

Selected credits (high level):

  • Actor: early roles including All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
  • Producer: The Rifleman (TV), The Big Valley (TV), McQ (1974), Brannigan (1975)