David Selby

David Selby – Life, Career, and Thoughtful Reflections

A full portrait of American actor and writer David Selby — from Dark Shadows to Falcon Crest, his theatrical roots, literary side, and memorable insights.

Introduction

David Lynn Selby (born February 5, 1941) is an American actor, stage performer, and writer, best known for his work in television soaps and dramas. His iconic roles include Quentin Collins on Dark Shadows (1968–1971) and Richard Channing on Falcon Crest (1982–1990). Over a career spanning decades, Selby has balanced screen acting with theater, writing, and a thoughtful public voice.

In this article, we trace his journey from Morgantown to Hollywood, explore his creative diversity, highlight his philosophy and public reflections, and see what lessons emerge from his enduring career.

Early Life and Education

David Selby was born on February 5, 1941, in Morgantown, West Virginia, to Clyde Ira Selby (a carpenter) and Sarah E. McIntyre Selby.

He grew up in Morgantown, recalling a stable and nurturing upbringing. He attended West Virginia University, where he earned a B.S. and M.A. (in theatre or related fields). Later, he pursued a Ph.D. at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

During his time at WVU, he joined theatre productions, including participating in Honey in the Rock, a Civil War drama staged in West Virginia.

He is married to Claudeis “Chip” Newman since August 10, 1963, and they have three children: Jamison, Brooke, and Amanda.

Career and Achievements

Breakthrough in Dark Shadows

Selby’s big break came in 1968 when he was cast as Quentin Collins in the gothic daytime soap Dark Shadows. Over its run, he became a fan favorite, and the show’s cult following gave him a lasting place in pop-culture memory.

After the TV run ended in 1971, he reprised the role in the film Night of Dark Shadows. In later years, he returned to voice the character in Dark Shadows audio dramas produced by Big Finish Productions.

Transition to Prime-Time Soap & Film

In the early 1980s, Selby appeared in Flamingo Road as Michael Tyrone (1981–1982). Soon after, he landed the role of Richard Channing on Falcon Crest, a prime-time soap.

Originally a villainous role, Richard Channing evolved over time into a more nuanced, central figure, especially in later seasons. Selby appeared in over 200 episodes of Falcon Crest.

In film, he starred in Raise the Titanic (1980), Up the Sandbox (1972), Rich Kids (1979), Intersection (1994), Dying Young (1991), White Squall (1996), Surviving Christmas (2004), among others.

He has also made guest appearances in many television series: The Waltons, Kojak, Police Woman, Cold Case, Mad Men, Ally McBeal, Legion, and more.

Beyond screen acting, Selby has always expressed a strong affinity for theatre, considering stage work his favorite medium.

Writing & Literary Work

Selby is also a writer. His creative output includes:

• Plays: Lincoln and James, Final Assault

• Poetry collections: My Mother’s Autumn, Happenstance

• Novels: Lincoln’s Better Angel, The Blue Door

• Memoir: My Shadowed Past (published in 2010), reflecting on his time on Dark Shadows.

• A Better Place, a blend of memoir and social commentary, discussing his upbringing and reflections.

He has also participated in literary and arts outreach, especially in West Virginia, serving on advisory boards and supporting arts in his home state.

Recognition and Honors

• In 1998, Selby received the Life Achievement Award from the West Virginia University College of Creative Arts.

• In 2004, his alma mater awarded him an honorary doctorate.

• He delivered the commencement address and was recognized by WVU.

• He is an honorary member of the WVU Creative Arts Center’s Advisory Board.

Personality, Style & Creative Philosophy

David Selby is often described as introspective, reflective, and committed to both craft and authenticity. He has spoken about the deep satisfaction of theatre work, valuing the immediacy and honesty of live performance.

His interest in writing—poetry, novels, memoir—suggests a desire to engage beyond performance, to articulate inner experience and cultural observation.

Despite his genre TV fame, Selby has often returned to smaller, thoughtful roles and creative projects, indicating a preference for substance over stardom.

He has also remained connected to West Virginia and its arts community, suggesting that place and roots continue to matter in how he views his identity.

Notable Quotes & Reflections

While David Selby is less known for widely circulated quips, his public remarks through interviews, writings, and memoirs reveal recurring themes:

• On his early life: he once said he “enjoyed a safe, happy life” growing up in Morgantown.

• In My Shadowed Past, he reflects candidly on what it was like working on Dark Shadows, fame at a young age, and how fans affected his life.

• In describing his acting journey: he talks about learning humility and patience, especially in balancing commercial and artistic roles (from website reflections).

Lessons from David Selby’s Journey

• Balance breadth with depth: Selby’s career spans genre TV, film, theatre, and writing—showing that a creative life need not be limited to one medium.

• Roots sustain identity: His continued engagement with West Virginia arts and education suggests that one’s origin can remain a guiding anchor, even amid a Hollywood career.

• Evolve with integrity: Roles like Richard Channing show that a character or actor can change over time, grow, and respond to new challenges, rather than remaining static.

• Voice beyond performance: His move into poetry, memoir, plays signals that creative expression often seeks outlets that go beyond what the public immediately sees.

• Lifelong learners thrive: Pursuing a Ph.D., returning to theatre, and writing later in life reflect that passion and curiosity can power longevity, not merely fame.

Conclusion

David Selby’s path is one of versatility and quiet distinction. From his early iconic role in Dark Shadows to decades as a tv actor, plus his literary work and ongoing engagement with theater, he exemplifies an artist committed to growth, substance, and reflection. His career reminds us that true creative life is more than roles—it is the conversations, stories, and questions one carries along the way.

If you wish, I can build a detailed timeline of Selby’s roles, or extract some of his best interview quotes with full context. Would you like me to do that?