David Carradine had a career that spanned nearly 45 years, continuing a family dynasty that began with his father, John, and is continued today with his four brothers - Bruce, Keith, Christopher, and Robert. He was not only an accomplished actor, but an artist and a musician as well.

David Carradine began his career in 1963 in an episode of the Armstrong Circle Theatre. He went on to do more television appearances, including Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theatre and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. A year later, he made his film debut in the movie Taggart.

Carradine’s most famous role occurred in 1972, when he took on the character of Caine in the hit series, Kung Fu. The show helped to popularize martial arts and Eastern philosophy and garnered him nominations for both an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Carradine reprised the role in 1986 with Kung Fu: The Movie and again with Kung Fu: The Legend Continues, a series that ran from 1993 to 1997.

Carradine also had his share of memorable movie roles, including race car driver Frankenstein in the cult classic, Death Race 2000, singer Woody Gunthrie in Bound for Glory, and outlaw Cole Younger in The Long Riders. He made a comeback in 2003 in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series.

Besides being a well-known actor, David Carradine was also an accomplished artist. From a young age, he enjoyed sculpting and drawing, with most of his work being influenced by painter Will Foster, who was Carradine’s great uncle. Many of his art work can be bought on his personal website. Carradine was also a gifted musician, as a pianist, guitarist, and composer.

Carradine passed away in 2009.

• Watch "The McMasters" with David Carradine on FMO