Why was George Maharis replaced on Route 66?

American actor, George Maharis who played the role of Buz Murdock in the 1960 tv series Route 66, had to be replaced in the series after he left due to health-related issues.

He once shared that he left Route 66 for health reasons, which was largely due to long hours and grueling conditions while shooting on location.

“I have to protect my future. I keep going at the present pace, I’m a fool. Even if you have $4 million in the bank, you can’t buy another life,” he said in an interview in 1963.

However, producers of the show also argued that Maharis’ excuse was invalid and that he broke his contract because he wanted to shoot other movies. And also the producers, “felt betrayed and duped when they learned of Maharis’ sexual orientation, and never trusted him again.”

They added that “in a less homophobic era, they might have communicated better, and worked things out.” His departure saw a decline in the show’s appeal.