On June 28, 1975, he was mowing his lawn, when all of a sudden, he began to experience some chest pains, and collapsed. His neighbor found him and called the ambulance. When he arrived in the operating room, the doctors saw that the artery leading to his heart was disintegrating and there was no hope for him. He died later that day in the hospital.
Outspoken supporter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
Ranked #1 in TV Guide's list of the "25 Greatest Sci-Fi Legends" (1 August 2004 issue), the only real person on the list. All the others are TV show characters.
Robert Marshall Hosfeldt authored a 1961 MA Thesis at San Jose State College called "Analysis of the techniques and content of characterization in the Academy Award winning plays of Rod Serling." 'Academy,' in this case, referred to the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Served in the Army of the United States, under the service number 32 738 306, from January 1943 to January 1946. Discharged in the rank of Technician 5th Grade (the equivalent of a Corporal) having served as an Infantry Combat Demolition Specialist and a Paratrooper
Started writing during World War II while recuperating from his injuries.
Suffered from combat-related flashbacks and insomnia.
Towards the end of his career, he narrated several documentaries about sharks and other underwater life that were shown a lot, at the time, in schools.
Was an outspoken opponent of The Vietnam War.
Was the first major writer to have disputes with Advertisers and executives.