Ricky Nelson, a beloved teen pop idol and television star, remains a significant figure in American pop culture. While many know of his tragic death in a plane crash, few are aware of the extraordinary decision he made that saved the lives of his twin sons. This article explores Ricky’s life, his fateful choice, and the enduring impact of his legacy.
The Early Life of Ricky Nelson
Born Eric Hilliard Nelson on May 8, 1940, in Teaneck, New Jersey, Ricky grew up in a showbiz family. His parents, Ozzie Nelson and Harriet Hilliard Nelson, starred in the iconic sitcom The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, which captivated audiences for 16 years. Ricky, along with his brother David, became a household name, appearing on the show from a young age.
Despite his success on television, Ricky had a complicated relationship with education. He attended Gardner Street Public School and later Hollywood High School, but his passion for music often overshadowed his academic pursuits. By the time he was 17, he had already begun his music career, releasing his first single, “I’m Walking,” which soared to number four on Billboard’s Best Sellers list.
The Rise to Stardom
Ricky’s musical career took off in the early 1960s. Hits like “Garden Party,” “Travelin’ Man,” and “Fools Rush In” established him as a leading figure in the rock ‘n’ roll scene. He married actress Kristin Harmon in 1963, and together they had four children: Sam, twins Matthew and Gunnar, and daughter Tracy. As his fame grew, Ricky struggled with the pressures of celebrity, particularly his intense fear of flying.
A Fateful Decision
In late 1985, Ricky planned to fly to Dallas for a New Year’s show. His twin sons, Matthew and Gunnar, were set to join him. However, just days before their departure, Ricky felt an unsettling premonition. He called his sons and decided they wouldn’t fly together. This seemingly small decision would later prove to be a life-saving choice.
On December 31, 1985, Ricky boarded the DC-3 plane in Alabama without his sons. Tragically, as the aircraft neared its destination, the cabin filled with smoke, leading to a catastrophic fire that claimed Ricky’s life and the lives of others on board. The pilot managed to land the plane safely, but the loss was devastating.
The Mystery of the Plane Crash
The cause of the fire remains shrouded in mystery decades later. Various rumors circulated, including unfounded claims about Ricky’s substance use. His brother David and other close friends have firmly denied these allegations. Tracy Nelson later suggested that mechanical failure, possibly related to the plane’s gasoline heater, could have caused the fire.
Despite the unanswered questions surrounding the crash, one thing is clear: Ricky’s instinct to keep his sons off the flight spared them from a tragic fate. Matthew and Gunnar, who were just young boys at the time, would go on to honor their father’s memory through music.
A Lasting Legacy
In the years following their father’s death, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson pursued their own successful music careers, forming the duo Nelson. They often dedicate their performances to their dad, describing it as “an open letter to our best friend.” The bond they share, both as brothers and as artists, serves as a testament to Ricky Nelson’s enduring influence on their lives.
Remembering Ricky Nelson
Ricky Nelson’s story is one of talent, fame, and tragic loss, but it’s also a powerful reminder of a father’s love and intuition. His last-minute decision to keep his twin sons off that ill-fated flight not only saved their lives but also solidified his legacy as a caring parent. While the circumstances surrounding his death may remain a mystery, the love he showed for his family will always be remembered. Ricky’s legacy continues to live on through his music and the lives of his children, reminding us of the deep connections we share with our loved ones.
