Jimmy Hawkins


Jimmy Hawkins is an American former actor, producer and writer. He is best-known for his TV roles in shows like Annie Oakley, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, Leave It to Beaver, Petticoat Junction, and The [Donna Reed Show]; and as Tommy Bailey, son of George Bailey in the 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life.

Early life

Born on November 13, 1941 in Los Angeles, California, Hawkins was the middle child of three born to Elizabeth K., née Unholz, and Thomas J. Hawkins, and the grandson of German-born prizefighter and onetime Keystone Cop, Rudy Unholz. Each of Hawkins' siblings—Thomas Jr., the eldest, and Susan, the youngest—was also a child actor of film and/or television, the former billed as either Tim, Timmy, or Timmie, and the latter as either Susan or Susie. Hawkins attended Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks, California, participating in sports activities, and he was a leader of the Junior Achievement group in Burbank.
In addition to Hawkins's acting, he made personal appearances that featured his roping and trick riding.

Personal life

Hawkins is the author of five books about the film It's a Wonderful Life, served on The Jimmy Stewart Museum Advisory Board, and for 20 years served on the board of directors of the Donna Reed Foundation for the Performing Arts.
In celebration of the Frank Capra film, Hawkins and other cast members appear annually at the "It's A Wonderful Life Festival" in Seneca Falls, New York, the town thought to be the inspiration for the movie's setting of Bedford Falls.

Filmography (selection)

It's a Wonderful Life as Tommy BaileyThe Ruggles as Donald RugglesAnnie Oakley as Tagg OakleyDennis The Menace as Chuck LongLeave It to Beaver as Dudley McMillanBringing Up Buddy