Mason Alan Dinehart

Mason Alan Dinehart, born on April 30, 1936, is a notable American business consultant and former actor, widely recognized for his portrayal of a young Bat Masterson in the classic television series, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp. This ABC/Desilu production aired from 1955 to 1959 and starred Hugh O'Brian as the legendary lawman Wyatt Earp. Dinehart appeared in thirty-four episodes, where he depicted Masterson as a protégé learning the nuances of frontier law enforcement under Earp's tutelage.

Born in Hollywood, Dinehart is the son of actor Alan Dinehart and his second wife, Mozelle Britton, who was also an actress and songwriter. In 1936, he adopted the name Mason Alan Dinehart III to distinguish himself from his older half-brother, Alan Dinehart Jr. Over the years, Dinehart experienced four marriages and is a father to seven children, though he faced the tragic loss of his son, Scott, in 2010.

Dinehart's memorable performance as Masterson led to an offer for a spinoff series from ABC, which he ultimately declined. His final appearance on Wyatt Earp came in the episode "Dodge Is Civilized," aired on April 28, 1959. After his acting career, Dinehart transitioned into the business world, leaving behind a legacy as both a creative talent and a successful entrepreneur. The character of Bat Masterson has since become a significant figure in Western folklore, known for both his law enforcement and later as a sportswriter in New York City.