Davey performed in numerous television series, including Perry Mason, The Rockford Files, and Max Headroom. Like many Hollywood actors, he would appear in minor roles as different characters in specific episodes of the same series; he appeared in The Rockford Files in six episodes over three years this way, and in four episodes of Barnaby Jones this way.[4] He acted in many TV movies.
Davey's most prominent performances were in his leading role as the superhero character Captain Marvel on the television series Shazam!.[2] The show was created and broadcast for a Saturday morning timeslot, which was typical for children's programming. Davey was the second actor to play the role on the series.[5] (The original actor for the role, Jackson Bostwick, was fired by the show's producers who believed Bostwick did not appear for filming as an attempt to increase his salary,[2] although Bostwick explained he was receiving medical treatment for injuries which occurred while performing stunts during filming of Shazam.[6] Bostwick successfully litigated against Filmation Associates, which was forced to pay him for the remainder of his contract, plus residuals, including the entire second season.) Davey has recalled that the producers were hastily seeking to replace Bostwick.[1] As Captain Marvel, Davey appeared in three episodes of Isis, a companion TV series.[4]
Personal life
Davey has a son, Tomasso Gambino (born on May 23, 1967), a grandson Kian Seiter and granddaughter Kylee Rice.[3]
^ abcGray, Michael; Davey, John (May 20, 2016). Episode 126: Shazam Commentary with Michael Gray and John Davey (Audio podcast). Interviewed by Joe Stuber – via Acast.com.
^ abcMurray, Noel (April 9, 2013). "'Shazam!' Remembering when superheroes weren't quite so cool". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on June 30, 2017. Retrieved May 23, 2017. (Jackson Bostwick played Captain Marvel in the original incarnation of the "Shazam!" television series, appearing as Billy Batson's superhero alter ego for the first 17 episodes of the series; the role was then taken over by John Davey.)
^Bostwick, Jackson (August 2003). "Exclusive Interview: Jackson Bostwick". Angelfire.com. The Unofficial Shazam! Appreciation Page. Archived from the original on August 17, 2011. Retrieved May 23, 2017.
