Anecdotes

Prepared himself to portray Charles Manson in the television miniseries Helter Skelter (1976) by locking himself in a closet for two hours every day.

When he received a call to come to Los Angeles to read for the role of Charles Manson in the TV movie Helter Skelter (1976), he auditioned by reading the speech Manson gave in the jury-less courtroom. He had the role three days later.

Played two real life high level criminals: Ed Gein (Ed Gein, le boucher (2000)) and Charles Manson (Helter Skelter (1976)).

Studied acting under the tutelage of Lee Strasberg and the Actors' Studio, and in the late 1960s and early 1970s, spent 10 years working in theatre in New York City.

Father, with Jacqueline Giroux, of Lalesha Railsback.

Father, with Marcy Sobel, of Beau Railsback & Eden Railsback.

Parents are Emerett Spencer (nee Sanford) and Clyde Webb Railsback.

Brother of Michael Railsback, David Railsback, & Philip Railsback.

Uncle of Craig Railsback.