- His father was a doctor and his mother was a nurse.
- Initially cast as Ray Krebbs on Dallas (1978) before being given the role of Cliff Barnes, Kercheval and Larry Hagman were the only cast members to remain with the series throughout its entire run. Kercheval appeared in 327 episodes, Hagman in all 357 episodes.
- Although Kercheval and Larry Hagman fought many battles on Dallas (1978), their most challenging battles were in real-life after the show ended. Kercheval successfully beat lung cancer in 1993, and had to have a significant portion of his lung removed, as a result of years of heavy smoking. Hagman underwent a successful liver transplant after being given weeks to live. In 2011, however, Hagman was diagnosed with stage-2 throat cancer and succumbed in November 2012.
- Kercheval collected early American glassware, regional art of the 1930s, and classic Packard automobiles.
- Attended Indiana University, majoring in music and drama and University of the Pacific in Stockon, California. He also studied acting at the distinguished Neighborhood Playhouse in New York.
- Has six grandchildren.
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