Jim Mitchum, son of Hollywood legend Robert Mitchum, passed away at 84 in Arizona after a long illness. Known for his breakout role in the 1958 cult classic Thunder Road, where he played his father’s younger brother, Jim began acting as a child and appeared in several films throughout the 1960s and 70s, including The Victors, Ride the Wild Surf, and Moonrunners, which inspired The Dukes of Hazzard TV show. He also pursued interests in stock car racing and briefly attempted a singing career, influenced by his friendship with Elvis Presley.

In 1994, Jim retired from acting to focus on ranch life in Skull Valley, Arizona, where he bred Quarter Horses and launched a whiskey brand honoring his father’s film legacy. He is survived by his wife Pamela, children, siblings, grandchildren, and extended family.