Diminutive yet commanding with distinctive vocal resonance and forceful mannerisms, Walston's career has spanned regional theater, Broadway, TV and film. Perhaps best remembered by TV audiences as the curmudgeonly extraterrestrial on the popular CBS comedy "My Favorite Martian" (1963-66), Walston had a successful stage and film career as well as appearances in early TV behind him before taking on the role of Uncle Martin O'Hara.

After leaving his native Louisiana, Walston began his acting career in regional theater before landing a role in the legendary Maurice Evans production of "Hamlet" on