SB. Bobby Sherman, teen idol of the 1960s and ’70s, dies at 81 — and the story of the five children born in unexpected places

Bobby Sherman, a prominent pop star and television actor of the 1960s and 1970s who later devoted his life to emergency medical training and public service, has passed away at the age of 81. His death was announced by his wife, Brigitte Poublon, and confirmed by longtime friend John Stamos through a public tribute on social media.

Sherman rose to fame with a wholesome image and a string of Billboard-charting songs that earned him a devoted fanbase. Over the decades, he transitioned from teen heartthrob to respected community figure, ultimately becoming a certified emergency medical technician (EMT) and a volunteer with law enforcement. His life was marked by achievements both on stage and in public service.

Early Life and Rise to Stardom

Born on July 22, 1943, Bobby Sherman grew up in the San Fernando Valley in California. He displayed musical talent from a young age, singing in school and playing in a local band. According to The Los Angeles Times, Sherman initially pursued studies in child psychology at Pierce College before a chance performance at a Hollywood party changed the course of his life. Guests at that gathering—reportedly including actors Jane Fonda and Natalie Wood—recognized his talent and encouraged him to seek representation.

Sherman’s big break came when he was cast on ABC’s musical variety show Shindig! in the mid-1960s. His television appearances quickly boosted his popularity, and he gained widespread attention for his starring role as Jeremy Bolt in the historical TV series Here Come the Brides (1968–1970), a light drama set in 19th-century Seattle. He also starred in Getting Together (1971), a show that followed a pair of young songwriters navigating the music industry.

Chart-Topping Music Career

Sherman became a pop music sensation, known for upbeat, clean-cut hits that resonated with younger audiences. According to Billboard, he scored four Top 10 singles on the Billboard Hot 100:

• “Little Woman” (1969)

• “Julie, Do Ya Love Me” (1970)

• “Easy Come, Easy Go” (1970)

• “La La La (If I Had You)” (1970)

His album Here Comes Bobby (1970) remained on the Billboard 200 for 48 weeks, peaking at number 10. During this period, Sherman’s image was featured on posters, lunchboxes, and teen magazines like Tiger Beat and Sixteen, placing him among the most recognized teen idols of the era.

TV Guide later ranked him No. 8 on their list of “TV’s 25 Greatest Teen Idols,” highlighting his widespread appeal and cultural significance.

Transition to Public Service

By the late 1970s, Sherman stepped away from the entertainment industry, citing the intense demands of touring and television work. In a 1997 interview with The Washington Post, he described the schedule as “so hectic” that it blurred the lines between personal and professional life.

Inspired by experiences as a father—he had two sons with his first wife, Patti Carnel—Sherman began studying emergency medical procedures to better care for his family. This interest evolved into formal EMT certification, and by 1988, he was working as a medical training officer with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), instructing recruits in CPR and first aid. According to public records and statements from the department, Sherman donated his salary during this time and took on a reserve deputy role with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

He later stated in interviews with the St. Petersburg Times and Tulsa World that assisting others during emergencies brought him a sense of fulfillment comparable to, if not greater than, the rewards of fame. He reportedly assisted in several emergency births, including one in which a newborn was named “Roberta” in honor of the event.

Awards and Recognition

Sherman received numerous accolades for his public service. According to Congressional records, the U.S. House of Representatives recognized his contributions in 2004 when then-Representative Howard McKeon commended him as a role model for civic duty.

Additionally, he was honored as LAPD’s Reserve Officer of the Year in 1999 and received the FBI’s Exceptional Service Award. He was also a recipient of the “Twice a Citizen” award from the Los Angeles County Reserve Foundation.

Legacy and Philanthropy

Sherman’s legacy extended beyond music and emergency services. Alongside his wife Brigitte Poublon, he co-founded the Brigitte and Bobby Sherman Children’s Foundation. The organization, based in Ghana, supports children by providing education, healthcare access, and other community services. The foundation continues to operate and is recognized for its grassroots approach to child welfare in underserved regions.

Sherman also participated in the “Teen Idols Tour” during the 1990s, performing alongside fellow 1960s stars Micky Dolenz (The Monkees), Davy Jones, and Peter Noone (Herman’s Hermits). Despite having largely moved on from the entertainment spotlight, his musical roots remained an important part of his public identity.

Personal Life and Passing

Sherman is survived by his wife, Brigitte Poublon, and their two sons, Christopher and Tyler. His passing came after a battle with Stage 4 cancer, which he had publicly acknowledged earlier in 2025.

In tribute, many fans and public figures have highlighted Sherman’s dual legacy—as a cherished performer of his generation and a community-minded individual who chose to serve others in meaningful, life-saving ways.

A Lasting Influence

From pop charts to emergency response units, Bobby Sherman’s life stands as a unique example of how fame can be redirected into purposeful action. His dedication to helping others, particularly through teaching life-saving techniques, left an enduring impact on both the entertainment industry and the communities he served.

As noted in multiple tributes from colleagues, former students, and fans, Bobby Sherman will be remembered not only for the joy he brought as a performer but also for the lives he touched—and in some cases, saved—through his humanitarian work.

Sources:

• Billboard Charts and Archives (billboard.com)

• Los Angeles Police Department Reserve Officer Program

• Congressional Record, U.S. House of Representatives (2004)

• The Washington Post

• The Tulsa World

• St. Petersburg Times

• Brigitte and Bobby Sherman Children’s Foundation (official website)

• TV Guide’s “25 Greatest Teen Idols” list