James Neilson

James William Neilson (October 1, 1909December 9, 1979) was an American television director, known for his stage and film direction as well as his work with Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color. Directing James W. Neilson was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, son of Edward Doremus and Clifford Bryant (nee "Hall") Neilson, and moved with his family to New York City as a child. In January 1942, Neilson enlisted in the US Marines directly following the entry of the United States into World War II. He served two tours of combat duty in the South Pacific and attained the rank of master sergeant. He was active as a war photographer. Following the war, Neilson returned to the theatre and from 1948 to 1952 he directed numerous productions at the La Jolla Playhouse, many of which featured well-known Hollywood performers including Gregory Peck, Charlton Heston and Groucho Marx. His La Jolla Playhouse work and relationships helped him land an offer to direct for Columbia Pictures in 1952. During the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, Neilson directed over 100 television episodes, including multiple episodes of dramatic series such as Adam-12, Ironside, Walt Disney's Wonderful World, Bonanza, Batman, Zorro, The Rifleman, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, and others.