eric hilliard nelson (may 8, 1940 – december 31, 1985) was an american rock and roll musician, singer-songwriter and actor. he was born in teaneck, new jersey. nelson starred alongside his family in the radio and television series "the adventures of ozzie and harriet". he was added into the rock and roll hall of fame on january 21, 1987. in 1996 nelson was ranked #49 on tv guide's 50 greatest tv stars of all time. he starred in "rio bravo" (1959). he placed 53 songs on the "billboard" hot 100, and its predecessors, between 1957 and 1973, including "poor little fool" in 1958.