Guide Note

Jerry VerDorn is an American stage and television actor. He was born on November 23, 1949, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. His father was a salesman so the family moved often. He, his two brothers and sister, Jim, Bonnie and Dan grew up in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota. VerDorn graduated from Edina High School, in Edina, Minnesota and he planned to become an English teacher but after wandering around the theater department of Moorehead State University he says he "developed the seven-year undergraduate program." During that time he studied at Studio 68, and acting school founded by Sean Connery among other British actors.

Fast Facts

1. Born: November 23, 1949
2. Full name: Jerry VerDorn
3. Birthplace: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
4. Education: Moorehead State University
5. Spouse: Bethea VerDorn
6. Children: Jacob and Peter VerDorn
7. Parents: Jake and Janice VerDorn
8. Siblings: Jim, Bonnie and Dan

After VerDorn graduated from Moorehead State University in Minnesota, he was cast in the play Black Elk Speaks. The show moved to the Folger Theater in Washington where the manager suggested he come to New York City. He did go after he returned home and married his college sweetheart Bethea. He is currently portraying Clint Buchannan on ABC’s One Life to Live. He stepped into the role in 2005 when actor Clint Richie left the show. VerDorn has been on Guiding Light in the role of Ross Marler but was taken off contract when GL had drastic budget cuts. His last appearance was on October 11, 2005. He had been on the show for 26 years.

In 1993, VerDorn diagnosed with prostate cancer. He was treated, but the cancer returned in 1994. Once again he went through treatment and it has not returned since. VerDorn has since been a supporter of the American Cancer Society and has hosted fund raising events for the organization.

• Jerry VerDorn
• One Life to Live
• c/o ABC-TV
• 56 West 66th St
• New York, NY 10023

1. Opera Digest Performer of the Week 2006
2. Daytime Emmy Awards Outstanding Supporting Actor 1996
3. Daytime Emmy Awards Outstanding Supporting Actor 1995

1. Height: 5ft 11in
2. Diagnosed with prostate cancer 1993
3. Favorite vacation spot: Bermuda
4. Puts over 2,000 miles a year on his bicycle
5. Nickname "Jerr the Bear" given by his former Guiding Light co-star Jane Elliot
6. Enjoys crossword puzzles