American movie stars born in 1902
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America were born in 1902:
Mantan Moreland
Mantan Moreland (September 3, 1902 Monroe-September 28, 1973 Hollywood) a.k.a. Manton Moreland, Moreland, Carter & Moreland, Man Tan Moreland or Manten Moreland was an American actor, comedian and vaudeville performer. He had one child, Marcella Moreland.
Moreland was best known for his roles in the popular "Charlie Chan" and "The East Side Kids" film series. He frequently played comedic characters, often with a distinctively jittery and nervous persona. Besides acting, Moreland was also a talented musician and had his own band, The Syncopators. His career spanned over four decades, from the 1920s through to the 1960s. Despite the success he achieved in his career, Moreland faced discrimination and was often limited to playing stereotypical roles. He paved the way for future generations of African American actors to have more diverse and substantive roles on screen.
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Edward Eliscu
Edward Eliscu (April 2, 1902 New York City-June 18, 1998 Newtown) was an American songwriter, actor, screenwriter, lyricist and playwright.
He began his career in the entertainment industry in the 1920s as a vaudeville performer before transitioning to songwriting. Eliscu collaborated with many notable composers and lyricists throughout his career, including George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, and Richard Rodgers. Some of his most famous works include "Without a Song," "Carioca," and "More Than You Know." In addition to his songwriting career, Eliscu also had several screenwriting credits and acted in a handful of films. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1975.
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George Murphy
George Murphy (July 4, 1902 New Haven-May 3, 1992 Palm Beach) also known as George Lloyd Murphy was an American politician, actor and dancer. He had two children, Melissa Elaine Murphy and Dennis Michael Murphy.
Murphy began his career as a dancer and performed in several Broadway musicals. He made his film debut in 1930 and went on to appear in over 45 films, including "Broadway Melody of 1938" and "Battleground." In 1952, he was elected to the U.S. Senate for California and served for one term, from 1953 to 1959. During his time in the Senate, he served on several committees, including the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Appropriations. After leaving politics, Murphy became a successful businessman and served on several corporate boards. He was also active in philanthropy and supported several charities, including the American Heart Association and the United Cerebral Palsy Association. Murphy was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Philip Ober
Philip Ober (March 23, 1902 Fort Payne-September 13, 1982 Mexico City) also known as Phil Ober, Philip Nott Ober or Phillip Ober was an American actor.
Ober began his acting career on Broadway in the 1930s, performing in plays such as "The Man Who Came Back" and "Biography." He eventually moved to Hollywood and appeared in over seventy films, including "North by Northwest," "Anatomy of a Murder" and "The Hustler." He also made numerous television appearances in shows such as "Perry Mason," "The Twilight Zone," and "The Beverly Hillbillies." In addition to his work in entertainment, Ober was a pilot and served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. He continued to act until his death in 1982 at the age of 80.
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Tex Terry
Tex Terry (August 22, 1902 Coxville, Indiana-May 18, 1985 Terre Haute) a.k.a. Tex Terry or Edward Earl Terry was an American actor.
He appeared in over 200 films during his career, typically playing the tough guy or sidekick. Terry got his start in Hollywood in the 1920s as a stuntman before moving on to small roles in silent films. He continued to work steadily throughout the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Maltese Falcon." Terry also made numerous appearances in Westerns, including several films with John Wayne. In addition to his acting career, Terry was also a skilled horseman and rodeo performer. He retired from acting in the 1950s and returned to Indiana, where he lived until his death in 1985.
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Leslie Fenton
Leslie Fenton (March 12, 1902 Liverpool-March 25, 1978 Montecito) also known as Leslie Carter Fenton was an American film director and actor.
He began his career as an actor, appearing in over 50 films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Fenton made the transition to directing in the early 1940s and directed several films including The Return of Frank James (1940) and Street to Nowhere (1947). He also directed episodes for popular television series such as Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and The Twilight Zone. In addition, Fenton was a highly decorated veteran of World War II, serving in the Royal Air Force and receiving several medals for his service.
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Vince Barnett
Vince Barnett (July 4, 1902 Pittsburgh-August 10, 1977 Encino) also known as Vincent J. Barnett or Vincent Barnett was an American actor, vaudeville performer, pilot and comedian.
Barnett began his career in entertainment as a vaudeville performer in the 1920s, and made the transition to film and television in the 1930s. He appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, often playing sidekick or comic relief roles. Some of his notable film credits include "Bringing Up Baby," "The Wolf Man," and "My Darling Clementine."
In addition to his work in entertainment, Barnett was also a licensed pilot and flew his own plane for many years. During World War II, he served as a flying instructor for the United States Army Air Corps.
Barnett continued to work in entertainment until his death in 1977 at the age of 75.
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Smith Ballew
Smith Ballew (January 21, 1902 Palestine-May 2, 1984 Longview) a.k.a. Ballew, Smith, Sykes Ballew, Sykes Smith Ballew, Smith Ballew and the Sons of the Sage or Buddy Blue was an American musician, actor and singer.
He began his musical career as a jazz trumpeter in the 1920s before transitioning to singing and eventually becoming a popular crooner in the 1930s. Ballew appeared in over 40 films, primarily westerns, and worked alongside stars such as Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. He was also a regular on radio programs and recorded over 100 popular songs throughout his career. In addition to his music and acting work, Ballew was an accomplished pilot and flew his own plane to many of his performances.
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Roy Barcroft
Roy Barcroft (September 7, 1902 Crab Orchard-November 28, 1969 Woodland Hills) also known as Howard Clifford Ravenscroft, Big Roy, Roy Bancroft, Howard Harold Ravenscroft or Howard H. Ravenscroft was an American actor.
Barcroft began his acting career in the 1930s and became known for his roles in Western films, often playing the villain. He appeared in over 300 films and television shows throughout his career, working with major studios such as Universal, Republic, and Warner Bros. Barcroft was also a regular on the television series "The Adventures of Superman" and "The Lone Ranger" in the 1950s. Prior to his acting career, Barcroft was a professional football player for the Miami Wildcats of the American Football League. He also served in the United States Army during World War II. Barcroft passed away in 1969 at the age of 67.
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Stepin Fetchit
Stepin Fetchit (May 30, 1902 Key West-November 19, 1985 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Lincoln Theodore Monroe Andrew Perry, Step'n Fetchit or Stepin' Fetchit was an American actor. He had two children, Donald Lambright and Jemajo.
Stepin Fetchit was the first black actor to become a millionaire, having starred in over 40 films. He was best known for his controversial role as a lazy, shiftless character in Hollywood films during the 1920s and 1930s, which drew criticism from many in the African American community. Despite the controversy, he was a pioneer in breaking down racial barriers in Hollywood and was a trailblazer for future African American actors. In addition to his acting career, Stepin Fetchit was also a talented musician and appeared in several stage productions. Later in life, he became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement and advocated for equal rights for African Americans.
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John Houseman
John Houseman (September 22, 1902 Bucharest-October 31, 1988 Malibu) also known as Jacques Haussmann or Jack was an American actor, film producer, television producer, screenwriter, theatrical producer, theatre director, theater manager, radio producer and radio writer. He had two children, John Michael and Charles Sebastian.
Houseman began his career as a stage actor and director in the 1920s and worked closely with Orson Welles' groundbreaking Mercury Theatre. He appeared in several of Welles' productions, including the infamous radio broadcast of "War of the Worlds" in 1938. In the 1940s, Houseman began producing films, earning an Academy Award for Best Picture as the producer of "The Paper Chase" in 1974.
He was also a prolific television producer and writer, producing the acclaimed anthology series "The Twilight Zone" and co-creating the popular 1980s detective series "Magnum, P.I." In addition to his work in entertainment, Houseman was a well-respected educator, serving as the head of the drama division at the Juilliard School and co-founding the drama department at the University of Southern California.
Houseman was married twice and had two children. He passed away in 1988 at the age of 86.
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Leon Ames
Leon Ames (January 20, 1902 Portland-October 12, 1993 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Leon Wycoff, Leon Waycoff, Harry Wycoff or Leon Wykoff was an American actor and businessperson. He had two children, Leon Ames Jr. and Shelley Ames.
Ames began his career on Broadway, appearing in a number of plays throughout the 1920s and 1930s. He then transitioned into film, making his debut in 1931. He went on to appear in over 150 films throughout his career, often playing authoritative figures such as judges and politicians.
In addition to his acting work, Ames was also a successful businessman. He founded a company that produced disposable paper products, which he later sold for a substantial profit in the 1950s.
Ames was also involved in numerous charitable organizations, including the March of Dimes and the American Heart Association. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Victor Jory
Victor Jory (November 23, 1902 Dawson City-February 12, 1982 Santa Monica) was an American actor and voice actor. He had two children, Jean Jory and Jon Jory.
Jory began his career on stage performing in various plays and musicals in the 1920s. In the 1930s, he began appearing in Hollywood films, including "The Shadow Strikes" and "I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang". He also had notable roles in "Gone with the Wind" and "The Miracle Worker". Jory was also a prolific voice actor, providing the voice for various animated characters, such as Owl in Disney's "The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh". Later in life, Jory became involved in philanthropic work and was an active member of the Santa Monica Bay Sertoma Club, a non-profit organization that helps individuals with hearing disabilities.
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Frank Weatherwax
Frank Weatherwax (June 23, 1902 United States of America-December 17, 1991) was an American actor.
Frank Weatherwax was not only an actor, but also a Hollywood animal trainer. He was best known for training the dog who played Lassie in the original MGM movie. He also trained animals for several other films and TV shows, including "Road to Utopia" and "The Great Rupert." Weatherwax was born in California and began training animals for films in the 1930s. He continued to work in the industry until his death in 1991. Throughout his career, Weatherwax trained hundreds of animals, including dogs, cats, elephants, and bears. He was a pioneer in the field of animal training and helped to establish the standards that are still used today.
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Lloyd Nolan
Lloyd Nolan (August 11, 1902 San Francisco-September 27, 1985 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Lloyd Benedict Nolan, Nolie or Nolan, Lloyd was an American actor. His child is called Jay Nolan.
Nolan started his career on the stage and then made his way into Hollywood in the 1930s. He appeared in over 150 films and TV series throughout his career, including "The Texas Rangers," "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn," and "Peyton Place." Nolan was also a recognized character actor known for playing tough guys, detectives, and authority figures. Later in his career, he began to appear in Westerns and starred in his own TV series, "Martin Kane, Private Eye." Nolan was married twice and had two children. Outside of acting, he served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service.
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Barton MacLane
Barton MacLane (December 25, 1902 Columbia-January 1, 1969 Santa Monica) also known as Barton McLane, Barton Mac Lane, Ernest Barton MacLane or Barton Maclane was an American actor, playwright and screenwriter. His children are called William MacLane and Martha MacLane.
MacLane began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, often playing tough-guy roles. Some of his notable roles include playing Lieutenant MacBride in the "Charlie Chan" films and playing opposite Humphrey Bogart in "The Maltese Falcon." MacLane also had a successful television career, appearing in popular shows such as "Perry Mason," "Gunsmoke," and "The Twilight Zone." In addition to his acting work, MacLane also wrote plays and screenplays. He passed away in 1969 at the age of 66.
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David Burns
David Burns (June 22, 1902 Mott Street-March 12, 1971 Philadelphia) also known as Dave Burns was an American actor and singer.
Burns began his career as a vaudeville performer in the 1920s and later transitioned to film, appearing in over 40 movies throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his role as "Duke Pastrami" in the 1941 film, "Hellzapoppin'." In addition to his film career, Burns also appeared on Broadway, including a role in the original production of "Guys and Dolls." He was also a frequent guest on television variety shows in the 1950s and 1960s. Known for his comedic timing and memorable character roles, Burns remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
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Phillips Lord
Phillips Lord (July 13, 1902 Hartford-October 19, 1975 Ellsworth) a.k.a. Phillips Haynes Lord or Phillips H. Lord was an American actor and screenwriter.
Additionally, Lord was a radio and television producer, as well as the creator and host of the radio program "Gang Busters" in the 1930s and 1940s. He also created and hosted the TV show "This is Your FBI" in the 1950s. Lord was a graduate of Yale University and began his career as a journalist before moving into entertainment. Throughout his career, he wrote and produced a number of TV and radio shows, and even acted in some films. Lord was married twice and had two children. He passed away in 1975 at the age of 73.
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Ray Teal
Ray Teal (January 12, 1902 Grand Rapids-April 2, 1976 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Ray E. Teal was an American actor and musician.
Ray Teal began his career as a musician, playing trumpet in various bands throughout the 1920s. However, he eventually transitioned to acting and became a prolific character actor in Hollywood. Teal is perhaps best known for his role as Sheriff Roy Coffee on the TV series "Bonanza," a role he played for 12 years. He appeared in over 250 films and TV shows over the course of his career, often playing law enforcement officials or other authority figures. Teal was known for his deep, commanding voice and his imposing presence on screen. In addition to his acting career, Teal was also a dedicated member of the Church of Scientology and worked as an auditor for the church in his later years.
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Harold Goodwin
Harold Goodwin (December 1, 1902 Peoria-July 12, 1987 Woodland Hills) also known as Al, Herold Goodwin, Harold R. Goodwin or Herald Goodwin was an American actor, stunt performer and screenwriter.
Goodwin began his career as an actor in the late 1920s, appearing in small roles in films such as "The Girl from Havana" and "The Last Parade." In the 1930s, he began to work as a stunt performer, working on films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Adventures of Robin Hood." He also worked as a writer, contributing to the scripts for several films including "Bringing Up Baby" and "His Girl Friday."
In the 1940s and 1950s, Goodwin continued to work as a writer and stunt performer, as well as taking on more substantial acting roles. He appeared in films such as "The Postman Always Rings Twice" and "The Asphalt Jungle," and also had a recurring role on the television series "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet."
Throughout his career, Goodwin was known for his athleticism and physicality, as well as his willingness to take risks as a stunt performer. He continued to work in the film industry until his death in 1987 at the age of 84.
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Tiffany Thayer
Tiffany Thayer (March 1, 1902 Freeport-August 23, 1959 Nantucket) also known as Tiffany Ellsworth Thayer was an American writer, author and actor.
He was the founder and artistic director of the White Barn Theatre in Westport, Connecticut, and authored several plays and novels, including the popular novel "Thirteen Women", which was made into a film in 1932. Thayer also wrote on a variety of subjects, including art, literature, and politics, and was a regular commentator on radio. As an actor, he appeared in several Hollywood films, including "The Wizard of Oz" (1939) and "The Maltese Falcon" (1941). Thayer's theatrical and literary legacy continues to influence artists and audiences alike.
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Ray "Crash" Corrigan
Ray "Crash" Corrigan (February 14, 1902 Milwaukee-August 10, 1976 Brookings) also known as Raymond Benard, Ray Corrigan, Crash Corrigan, Gorilla, Ray Benard, Nbongo, Naba, Crash, Ray 'Crash' Corrigan, Raymond Benitz or Ray Bernard was an American actor and stunt performer.
He first gained fame as a stuntman and horseman in Western films of the 1930s and 1940s, but also appeared in a variety of other genres including horror, sci-fi, and adventure. Corrigan was known for his athletic ability and willingness to perform dangerous stunts, such as riding horses at high speeds, jumping off cliffs, and even wrestling live alligators. He also had a long career in television, appearing in shows such as "The Range Rider" and "The Adventures of Superman". In addition to his work on screen, Corrigan also owned and operated a ranch where he trained horses and other animals for films and television. He was inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in 1970.
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Eduard Franz
Eduard Franz (October 31, 1902 Milwaukee-February 10, 1983 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Eduard Franz Schmidt was an American actor.
Franz began his acting career on Broadway and made his film debut in 1948's "Every Girl Should Be Married." He went on to appear in over 70 films and television shows, including "The Ten Commandments," "The Jazz Singer," and "The Twilight Zone." Franz was known for his strong character portrayals, often playing authority figures or wise mentors. He continued acting well into his 70s, with his last screen credit being in the 1981 film "Carbon Copy."
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Jack Ingram
Jack Ingram (November 15, 1902 Frankfort-February 20, 1969 Canoga Park) otherwise known as John Samuel Ingram, Jack Ingraham or Jack Ingrahm was an American actor.
Ingram began his career in the silent film era and made his debut in the 1927 film "The Cohens and Kellys." He appeared in over 300 films throughout his career, often playing minor or supporting roles. Some of his notable roles include Sheriff Kip McKinney in the film "Riders of the Purple Sage" and Mr. Pike in the film "Gone with the Wind." Ingram also made appearances in numerous television shows such as "Gunsmoke," "Wagon Train," and "The Lone Ranger." Outside of acting, Ingram was also an accomplished musician and performed with various jazz bands. He passed away at the age of 66 due to heart disease.
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William Forrest
William Forrest (October 10, 1902 Cambridge-January 26, 1989 Santa Monica) also known as Bill Forrest was an American actor.
He appeared in over 250 films and TV shows during his career, spanning five decades. Forrest started his acting career in the 1920s, playing minor roles in silent films. He then went on to become a popular character actor in the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in films such as "The Maltese Falcon" (1941) and "Now, Voyager" (1942). In the 1950s, he transitioned to television, where he appeared in numerous popular shows including "Perry Mason," "The Twilight Zone," and "The Andy Griffith Show." Despite his prolific career, Forrest never achieved major stardom but was highly respected in the industry for his versatility and dependable talent.
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Addison Richards
Addison Richards (October 20, 1902 Zanesville-March 22, 1964 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Addison Whitaker Richards Jr. or Addison Whittaker Richards, Jr. was an American actor. His child is called Ann Richards.
Addison Richards appeared in over 300 films during his career and was known for his versatility in playing a wide range of roles from authoritative figures to villains. He began his acting career in the 1920s, primarily in stage productions before transitioning to films in the 1930s. In addition to films, he also appeared on television, most notably in the hit Western series, "The Lone Ranger" in which he played Sheriff Andy Olsen. Richards was also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. He passed away in 1964 at the age of 61.
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Dick Curtis
Dick Curtis (May 11, 1902 Newport-January 3, 1952 Hollywood) a.k.a. Richard Dye or Richard Curtis was an American actor.
He appeared in over 200 films and was best known for his roles as villains and henchmen in Westerns and serials. Curtis started his career in silent films in the 1920s and transitioned into talkies in the 1930s. In addition to his acting career, Curtis was also a skilled horseman and performed his own stunts in many of his films. He worked with some of the biggest stars of his time, including John Wayne, Roy Rogers, and Gene Autry. Later in his career, Curtis also worked as a dialogue coach for films like Shane and High Noon. He passed away at the age of 49 due to a heart attack.
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Larry Fine
Larry Fine (October 5, 1902 Philadelphia-January 24, 1975 Woodland Hills) also known as Laurence Feinberg, Louis Feinberg, Fine and Howard Howard, Fine, Three Stooges, The 3 Stooges, The Three Stooges, Larry or Porcupine was an American comedian, actor, musician, violinist and professional boxer. His children are called John Fine and Phyllis Fine.
Larry Fine was best known for his work as a member of the iconic American comedy team, The Three Stooges. He joined the group in 1928 and remained with them until their retirement in 1970. He was known for his comedic timing, physical humor, and for his signature frizzy hair.
Before joining The Three Stooges, Larry Fine worked as a violinist and a professional boxer. In fact, he was encouraged to join the latter profession by his friend, heavyweight champion boxer Jack Dempsey. However, after sustaining an injury in the ring, Fine decided to focus on his music career.
Despite being known primarily as a comedian, Fine was a skilled musician and often incorporated music into his comedy routines. He played the violin, as well as a number of other instruments, and even wrote several songs that appeared in The Three Stooges films.
Larry Fine passed away in 1975 at the age of 72. He is remembered today as one of the most beloved comedians in American history, and for his contributions to popular culture through his work with The Three Stooges.
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Ben Lessy
Ben Lessy (April 29, 1902 New York City-October 30, 1992 Beverly Hills) also known as Benjamin Lessy was an American actor.
He began his career as a vaudeville performer and later transitioned to film and television. Lessy appeared in over 100 films and TV shows throughout his career, including "Some Like It Hot," "High Society," and "The Jack Benny Program." He was known for his comedic timing and often played the role of a character actor. Lessy was also a talented musician and played trumpet and piano. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, he was an avid collector of antique cars and owned several rare models throughout his lifetime.
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Harry Stockwell
Harry Stockwell (April 27, 1902 Kansas City-July 19, 1984 New York City) a.k.a. Harry Bayless Stockwell was an American actor and singer. He had two children, Dean Stockwell and Guy Stockwell.
Harry Stockwell began his career as a stage performer and appeared in several Broadway productions during the 1920s and 1930s. In 1929, he became one of the first singers to appear on television when he performed on an experimental broadcast in New York City.
Stockwell also made several appearances in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including providing the singing voice of the Prince in the classic Disney animated film "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937). He also played supporting roles in films such as "Lost Horizon" (1937) and "The Great Waltz" (1938).
Apart from his acting career, Stockwell was also known for his beautiful tenor voice, and he recorded several albums of popular and classical music during his lifetime. He was a regular performer on radio programs such as "The Bell Telephone Hour" and also appeared in several musical plays in the 1950s and 1960s.
In addition to his sons Dean and Guy, both of whom became successful actors themselves, Stockwell also had a daughter, Lynne, with his first wife, actress and singer Nina Olivette. Harry Stockwell passed away in 1984 in New York City at the age of 82.
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Jan Kiepura
Jan Kiepura (May 16, 1902 Sosnowiec-August 15, 1966 Harrison) a.k.a. Kiepura, Jan, Jan Wiktor Kiepura or Jean Kiepura was an American singer and actor. His children are called Sharbek Kiepura and Marjan Kiepura.
Jan Kiepura was born in Sosnowiec, a town in southern Poland. He was a renowned tenor opera singer and also appeared in films. He began his career in the 1920s and quickly rose to fame in Europe with his powerful voice, charming personality, and good looks. Kiepura performed in German and Polish operas before making his debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York in 1936. He also appeared in a number of films in Germany and Poland during the 1930s and 1940s. After World War II, Kiepura settled in the United States with his wife and son, where he continued to perform and tour until his death in 1966. He is considered one of the greatest tenors of the 20th century and left a lasting legacy in the world of music and film.
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Sir Lancelot
Sir Lancelot (March 24, 1902 Cumuto-March 12, 2001 Anaheim) otherwise known as Lancelot Victor Edward Pinard was an American actor and singer.
He was born in Trinidad and Tobago and moved to the United States at the age of 16. Sir Lancelot began his career in entertainment in the 1930s, appearing in several Hollywood films including "Drums of the Congo" and "I Walked with a Zombie". He was known for his deep, resonant singing voice and performed in several musicals on Broadway, including the original production of "Finian's Rainbow".
In addition to his acting and singing career, Sir Lancelot was also a talented artist and photographer. He often painted scenes from his home country of Trinidad and Tobago, and his photographs were exhibited in galleries across the United States.
Throughout his life, Sir Lancelot was a champion of Trinidadian culture and worked to promote its art and music. He was a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Southern California and was awarded the Hummingbird Medal in 1970 in recognition of his contributions to Trinidadian culture.
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Richard Alexander
Richard Alexander (November 19, 1902 Dallas-August 9, 1989 Woodland Hills) also known as Dick Alexander was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the 1920s, appearing in stage productions before transitioning to film in 1929. Over the course of his career, he appeared in over 200 films and television shows, often playing supporting roles. Some of his notable film credits include "The Killers" (1946), "Ace in the Hole" (1951), and "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" (1963). He also made numerous appearances on TV shows such as "Perry Mason" and "Gunsmoke." Alexander was known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray a variety of characters. He continued to act well into his seventies, with his final on-screen performance in the TV movie "Case Closed" in 1988.
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Will Geer
Will Geer (March 9, 1902 Frankfort-April 22, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as William Auge Ghere, William Auge Geer, High Ghere or William Aughe Ghere was an American actor, botanist, singer and social activist. His children are called Ellen Geer, Kate Geer and Thad Geer.
Geer is best known for his role as Grandpa Zebulon Tyler Walton in the hit TV series, "The Waltons." Throughout his career, he acted in numerous plays on Broadway, including "Outward Bound," which was his breakout role. As a botanist, Geer founded the Theatricum Botanicum, an outdoor theater and botanical garden in Topanga, California. He was also a member of the Communist Party and was blacklisted during the McCarthy era. In 1951, he was called to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee but refused to answer questions about his political affiliations, resulting in his suspension from acting for several years. Despite this, Geer remained committed to social justice causes and continued to perform in theater and on television until his death in 1978.
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William Collier, Jr.
William Collier, Jr. (February 12, 1902 New York City-February 5, 1987 San Francisco) otherwise known as William Collier, Jr, William 'Buster' Collier, Buster Collier Jr., William 'Buster' Collier Jr., Buster Collier, Buster, Charles F. Gall Jr., Charles F. Gal, Jr. or William Collier was an American television producer, actor and writer.
Collier began his acting career in silent films in the 1920s, starring in numerous comedies and dramas throughout the decade. He then transitioned to talkies in the 1930s and appeared in films such as "The Phantom President" and "Little Women."
In the 1950s, Collier moved to television production and became known for his work on the popular Western series "Maverick." He also produced and wrote for other TV shows including "The Texan" and "Colt .45."
Collier was married three times and had six children. His son, William Collier III, also had a successful career in television production.
Later in life, Collier became interested in metaphysics and spirituality, and wrote several books on the subject. He passed away at the age of 84 in San Francisco.
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Edward Gargan
Edward Gargan (July 17, 1902 Brooklyn-February 19, 1964 New York City) a.k.a. Ed Gargan, Edward F. Gargan or Edward P. Gargan was an American actor.
He began his career in vaudeville and made his way to Broadway before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Gargan appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, often playing tough-guy roles in various genres. Some of his notable films include "The Roaring Twenties" (1939), "The Maltese Falcon" (1941), and "The Naked City" (1948). He also acted in several television shows in the 1950s, including "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok" and "The Lone Ranger." Outside of acting, Gargan was an avid golfer and spent much of his free time on the golf course.
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Jack La Rue
Jack La Rue (May 3, 1902 New York City-January 11, 1984 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Jack LaRue or Gaspere Biondolillo was an American actor. He had one child, Jack La Rue, Jr..
La Rue began his career in vaudeville and made his way to Hollywood in the 1920s. He appeared in over 100 films, often playing tough-guy roles in gangster films and film noirs. Some of his notable films include "A Farewell to Arms" (1932), "The Story of Temple Drake" (1933), "Algiers" (1938), and "Pursued" (1947). He was also known for his distinctive voice and worked as a voice actor in radio programs such as "The Adventures of Sam Spade" and "The Shadow". La Rue served in the U.S. Army during World War II and continued acting until the late 1960s.
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Guy Lombardo
Guy Lombardo (June 19, 1902 London-November 5, 1977 Houston) also known as Gaetano Alberto Lombardo, Lombardo, Guy, The Lombardo Brothers, Guy Lombardo and His Orchestra or Mr. New Year's Eve was an American actor.
Actually, Guy Lombardo was a Canadian-born bandleader and musician, best known for his orchestra's smooth and soothing dance music, often called "the sweetest music this side of heaven." Lombardo and his musicians played together for over five decades, starting in the 1920s, and his orchestra became a household name through their annual New Year's Eve broadcasts from the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. Lombardo was known for his signature white tuxedo and conducting style, and he and his band recorded dozens of hit songs, including "Auld Lang Syne," "Boo Hoo," and "Enjoy Yourself (It's Later Than You Think)." Along with his music career, Lombardo also appeared in several films, including "Many Happy Returns" and "The Time, the Place, and the Girl." Lombardo died in 1977, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most beloved bandleaders of all time.
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Raymond Hackett
Raymond Hackett (July 15, 1902 New York City-July 7, 1958 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Master Raymond Hackett was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the 1920s, appearing in silent films such as "The Love Charm" and "The Midshipman". Hackett was a popular leading man during the transition to sound films, starring in several romantic dramas during the 1930s. Some of his notable films include "The Easiest Way" (1931), "The Common Law" (1931), and "A Farewell to Arms" (1932).
In addition to his film career, Hackett also appeared on Broadway, making his debut in the play "Three-Cornered Moon" in 1933. He was known for his handsome looks and gentlemanly demeanor, which made him a popular choice for both romantic leads and character roles.
Hackett's career was cut short when he passed away at the age of 55 due to complications from surgery. Despite his relatively short time in the spotlight, he is remembered as a talented actor who left his mark on Hollywood's Golden Age.
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Fred Leedon Scott
Fred Leedon Scott (February 14, 1902 Fresno-December 16, 1991 Riverside) also known as Fred Scott was an American actor.
He appeared in numerous films in the 1920s and 1930s, and was often cast as a cowboy or western hero. In his early career, Scott also worked as a singer and radio personality. Later in life, he transitioned to working as a real estate broker in Southern California. Scott is also known for his philanthropic work and dedication to supporting veterans, including serving as the national commander of the Disabled American Veterans organization.
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Everett Brown
Everett Brown (January 1, 1902 Smith County-October 14, 1953 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Everett G. Brown or Everette Brown was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the late 1920s, and appeared in more than 80 films throughout his career. Some of his notable roles include "The Misleading Lady" (1932), "King Kong" (1933), "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938), and "The Maltese Falcon" (1941). Brown was also a talented singer, and performed in several musical films such as "The Singing Kid" (1936) and "Going Places" (1938).
In addition to his work on screen, Brown was also an accomplished stage actor, and frequently performed in theater productions throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He was also a respected acting coach, and taught at the renowned Pasadena Playhouse in California.
Brown's career was cut short when he died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 51. Despite his relatively short career, he left behind a lasting legacy as a talented actor and performer.
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Onslow Stevens
Onslow Stevens (March 29, 1902 Los Angeles-January 5, 1977 Van Nuys) otherwise known as Onslow Stevenson was an American actor.
Stevens appeared in over 100 films throughout his prolific acting career in Hollywood. He began his acting career in the late 1920s, landing mostly small roles in silent films. However, his deep voice and striking looks landed him more prominent roles in the 1930s, such as Captain Nemo in "The Mysterious Island" (1932).
In the 1940s, Stevens transitioned to character roles, playing everything from spies to doctors, and even the occasional villain. He appeared in notable films such as "The Monster and the Girl" (1941) and "The Creeper" (1948).
Stevens also had a successful career as a radio actor, lending his voice to various programs throughout the 1930s and 1940s.
Later in his career, Stevens continued to act in both film and television, with his final screen credit being in the TV series "Marcus Welby, M.D." in 1972. He passed away in 1977 at the age of 74.
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Chill Wills
Chill Wills (July 18, 1902 Seagoville-December 15, 1978 Encino) a.k.a. Chill Theodore Wills or Theodore Childress Wills was an American actor and singer. He had two children, Will Wills and Jill Wills.
Wills began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1930s. He appeared in over 300 films and TV shows, often playing a humorous sidekick or character actor. Some of his notable roles include Davy Crockett's sidekick, Beekeeper, in the film "The Alamo" (1960), and Uncle Bawley in "Giant" (1956). Wills also had a successful career as a voice actor, lending his voice to several animated films and TV shows, including Disney's "Robin Hood" (1973). In addition to his acting career, Wills was also a talented singer and recorded several albums throughout his career. He was known for his deep, distinctive voice and often sang western and country music. Wills passed away in 1978 at the age of 76.
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Leon Belasco
Leon Belasco (October 11, 1902 Odessa-June 1, 1988 Orange) also known as Leonid Simeonovich Berladsky was an American actor, musician and violinist.
He began his career performing in vaudeville and eventually made his way to Hollywood, appearing in over 70 films. Belasco was known for his comedic roles and his appearances in several movies with Bob Hope, including "My Favorite Blonde" and "The Lemon Drop Kid." He was also a talented musician and played the violin in several films, as well as performing live on stage. Additionally, Belasco was a writer and composer, and wrote the theme song for the TV series "My Little Margie." In his later years, he retired from acting to focus on his music career and performed with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.
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Frank Jenks
Frank Jenks (November 4, 1902 Des Moines-May 13, 1962 Hollywood) was an American actor, singer and dancer.
He appeared in over 180 films from 1930 to 1959, often playing comical sidekick roles. Jenks' career began on Broadway in the 1920s, where he performed in several musicals. He transitioned to Hollywood in the 1930s and became known for his supporting roles in a variety of genres, including Westerns, comedies, and dramas. In addition to his work on screen, Jenks also lent his voice to several radio programs, such as Lux Radio Theater and The Abbott and Costello Show. He was married twice, with both marriages ending in divorce. Jenks passed away from a heart attack in 1962 at the age of 59.
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Trevor Bardette
Trevor Bardette (November 19, 1902 Nashville-November 28, 1977 Los Angeles) also known as Trev Bardette or Terva Gaston Hubbard was an American actor.
Although he appeared in over 300 movies and TV shows, Bardette is best known for his role as Old Mose in the TV series "The Lone Ranger." He began his career in vaudeville as a contortionist and later transitioned into acting, often playing tough-guy roles in Westerns. Bardette also worked behind the scenes, writing and directing several films and TV episodes. In addition to his acting work, he was an accomplished artist, specializing in watercolor paintings of landscapes and seascapes. Bardette died at the age of 75 from natural causes while working on the film "The Manitou."
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Michael Whalen
Michael Whalen (June 30, 1902 Wilkes-Barre-April 14, 1974 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Joseph Kenneth Shovlin or Joseph Shovlin was an American actor.
Whalen started his career on Broadway where he appeared in various productions like "Detective Story" and "Skipper Next to God." He then transitioned to the film industry where he appeared in over 200 films. He often played supporting roles in films such as "High Noon," "Giant," and "The Ten Commandments." He also appeared in several TV shows like "The Lone Ranger" and "Perry Mason." In addition to his acting career, Whalen was also a director and producer for both film and television.
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Lyle Talbot
Lyle Talbot (February 8, 1902 Pittsburgh-March 2, 1996 San Francisco) a.k.a. Lisle Henderson, Lysle Talbot or Lysle Henderson was an American actor. His children are called David Talbot, Stephen Talbot, Margaret Talbot and Cynthia Talbot.
He began his career in the 1920s as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Talbot appeared in over 150 films throughout his career, including several of the classic Universal Horror films such as "The Invisible Man" and "Son of Frankenstein". He also had recurring roles on television shows such as "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" and "Leave It to Beaver". Later in his career, Talbot became involved in politics and served on the Screen Actors Guild for several terms. He retired from acting in the 1960s and moved to San Francisco where he became active in local theater. Talbot passed away in 1996 at the age of 94.
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Jack Pepper
Jack Pepper (June 14, 1902 Palestine-April 1, 1979 Los Angeles) also known as Edward Jackson Culpepper, Jack Pepper and His Society Pets, Edward Jackson "Jack" (Cul) Pepper or Jack Culpepper was an American singer, musician, comedian, actor, vaudeville performer, businessperson and dancer. He had one child, Cynthia Pepper.
Pepper began his career in show business as a child performer, touring with his family's vaudeville act. He later became a popular radio personality and made numerous appearances in film, often playing comic sidekick roles. Pepper also had success as a businessperson, owning several nightclubs and restaurants in Los Angeles. He continued performing well into his later years, including a notable stint as a regular guest on The Hollywood Squares. Despite struggling with alcoholism throughout his life, Pepper remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and was known for his quick wit and infectious energy.
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Paul Guilfoyle
Paul Guilfoyle (July 14, 1902 Jersey City-June 27, 1961 Hollywood) was an American television director, actor and film director. He had two children, Anthony Guilfoyle and Paul Guilfoyle.
Guilfoyle began his career in the film industry as an actor in the 1920s, appearing in silent films such as "The Perfect Alibi" (1928) and "The Racketeer" (1929). He transitioned to directing in the 1940s, helming episodes for various television shows including "The Adventures of Superman" and "Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok."
However, Guilfoyle is perhaps best known for his work as a director on the CBS crime drama series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" from 2000 to 2014. During his tenure on the show, he directed over 50 episodes and was nominated for multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series.
Guilfoyle passed away in 1961 at the age of 58. His legacy in the entertainment industry as both an actor and director lives on, with his contribution to popular TV shows still remembered and celebrated by fans of the genre.
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