He’s best known for playing the role of Dr. Joe Gannon on the popular television series Medical Center, where he starred from 1969 all the way through 1976. But before Dr. Joe Gannon became a household name, he actually made his acting debut nine years earlier in Surfside 6. Now, here’s an interesting bit—his real name wasn’t always tied to the character we came to love. Originally, he was born Raymon Lee Cramton, but he decided to change it later on, mainly because of spelling issues that kept causing confusion. As for his personal life, Dr. Joe Gannon—well, the man behind the name—tied the knot with Shelby Grant back in 1966, and together they built a family, welcoming two children over the years. So while many remember him as Dr. Joe Gannon, there was a lot more to his story long before and beyond the screen.
He used to struggle with alcohol, but now he stays committed to his recovery by regularly attending AA meetings. It’s part of his routine—something he does to keep things balanced and moving forward. He knows how important it is to stay connected, so he makes it a point to show up, week after week. For him, these meetings aren’t just a habit—they’re a lifeline. And honestly, that’s what helps him stay on track. He’s come a long way, and he doesn’t want to lose the progress he’s made. So yes, he still goes to AA, because for him, it’s about more than just staying sober—it’s about building a better life.