Lorne Hyman Greene (born Lyon Himan Green; February 12, 1915 – September 11, 1987) was a beloved Canadian actor, radio personality, and singer, best known internationally for his roles as Ben Cartwright on Bonanza and Commander Adama on Battlestar Galactica. A powerful and reassuring presence on screen and air, Greene became a symbol of wisdom, strength, and integrity for generations of audiences.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario, to Russian-Jewish immigrants, Greene began his career in radio while studying at Queen’s University. He became the principal newsreader for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation during World War II, earning the nickname “The Voice of Canada”—and, for his somber war updates, “The Voice of Doom.” After the war, he founded the Lorne Greene Academy of Radio Arts, training a generation of broadcasters and performers.

Greene transitioned to acting in the 1950s, earning acclaim in stage and television roles. He achieved global fame as the steadfast patriarch Ben Cartwright on Bonanza (1959–1973), one of the longest-running Westerns in TV history. He further solidified his legacy in science fiction as Commander Adama in Battlestar Galactica (1978–1980). He also appeared in major productions like Roots, Griff, Earthquake, and voiced numerous documentaries, nature series, and animated specials.

An accomplished recording artist, Greene found chart success with his 1964 spoken-word hit "Ringo" and released several albums reflecting his Western television persona.

Beyond entertainment, Greene championed environmental awareness through his Canadian series Lorne Greene’s New Wilderness (1982–1987). He co-hosted NBC’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade for nearly a decade and remained a familiar face in commercials and public service work.

He was honored as an Officer of the Order of Canada, awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and inducted posthumously into Canada’s Walk of Fame. Greene passed away in 1987 at the age of 72 but left behind a legacy that continues to resonate across borders and generations.