American movie stars born in 1905
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America were born in 1905:
Joseph Cotten
Joseph Cotten (May 15, 1905 Petersburg-February 6, 1994 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Jo, Joseph Cheshire Cotten or Joseph Cheshire Cotten, Jr. was an American actor and screenwriter.
Cotten began his acting career on stage, working as an understudy for Orson Welles in the production of "Danton's Death." He later starred in several of Welles' films, including "Citizen Kane" and "The Magnificent Ambersons." Cotten was known for his roles in classic films such as "The Third Man" and "Shadow of a Doubt." He also appeared in numerous television shows, including "The Twilight Zone" and "The Love Boat." In addition to his acting career, Cotten was also a successful screenwriter, penning the screenplays for the films "Niagara" and "The Farmer's Daughter." He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "The Affairs of Susan" in 1945. Cotten passed away in 1994 at the age of 88.
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Otto Preminger
Otto Preminger (December 5, 1905 Vyzhnytsia-April 23, 1986 New York City) also known as Otto Ludwig Preminger or Otto the Ogre was an American film director, actor, film producer and theatre director. He had three children, Erik Lee Preminger, Victoria Preminger and Mark Preminger.
Preminger was born in Vyzhnytsia, Austro-Hungarian Empire (now Ukraine) and immigrated to the United States in 1935. Before his successful career in film, he was a practicing lawyer in Austria. His first major film credit was as a producer for the movie "In the Meantime, Darling" in 1944. Preminger went on to direct several acclaimed films, including "Laura," "Anatomy of a Murder," and "The Man with the Golden Arm."
He was also known for his controversial and boundary-pushing films that tackled taboo subjects, including drug addiction and homosexuality. Preminger's style of directing was marked by his attention to detail, use of long takes, and willingness to let his actors improvise.
In addition to his contributions to cinema, Preminger was an accomplished stage director and produced several Broadway shows. Throughout his career, he was nominated for numerous awards, including several Oscars.
Preminger passed away in New York City in 1986, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering filmmaker who pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on film.
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Henry Fonda
Henry Fonda (May 16, 1905 Grand Island-August 12, 1982 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Henry Jaynes Fonda, One-Take Fonda or Hank was an American actor, television producer and soldier. He had three children, Peter Fonda, Jane Fonda and Amy Fishman.
Fonda was known for his versatility and critically acclaimed performances in films such as "The Grapes of Wrath" (1940), "12 Angry Men" (1957) and "On Golden Pond" (1981) for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor. Fonda began his acting career on Broadway and later transitioned to Hollywood, playing a wide range of characters in over 100 films, including Westerns, dramas and comedies. Fonda was also a political activist and supporter of various causes, including civil rights and the anti-war movement during the Vietnam War. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and later produced and hosted a television series on the history of America's naval power.
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Franchot Tone
Franchot Tone (February 27, 1905 Niagara Falls-September 18, 1968 New York City) also known as Stanislaus Pascal Franchot Tone or Stanislas Pascal Franchot Tone was an American actor. He had two children, Pascal Franchot Tone and Thomas Jefferson Tone.
Franchot Tone began his acting career on stage and later transitioned to Hollywood films in the 1930s. He was known for his versatile talent, taking on both dramatic and comedic roles. Tone received critical acclaim for his performance in the 1935 film "Mutiny on the Bounty" and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in the 1937 film "Love on the Run."
In addition to his acting career, Tone also served in World War II as a captain in the United States Army Air Forces. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his service.
Despite his successes, Tone struggled with personal issues, including alcoholism and a tumultuous love life. He was married three times, including to actress Joan Crawford from 1935-1939. In 1956, Tone was involved in a highly publicized altercation with fellow actor Tom Neal, who severely beat Tone and left him with lasting injuries.
Franchot Tone continued to act in films and television throughout the 1950s and 1960s, but his career was ultimately cut short by his death from lung cancer in 1968. He was 63 years old at the time of his passing.
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Andy Devine
Andy Devine (October 7, 1905 Flagstaff-February 18, 1977 Orange) also known as Andrew Vabre Devine, Jeremiah Schwartz or Andrew Vabre "Andy" Devine was an American actor, football player, character actor and voice actor. He had five children, Tad Devine, Denny Devine, Susanna Rachel Devine, Deborah Catherine Devine and Arthur Matthew Devine.
Devine began his career in Hollywood in the 1920s as a silent film actor before transitioning to talkies in the 1930s. He appeared in over 400 films including "Stagecoach" and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". Devine was also a popular character actor on television, with roles on shows such as "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok" and "The Andy Devine Show". In addition, he was a regular voice actor for Disney, providing the voice for Friar Tuck in the animated classic "Robin Hood". In his personal life, Devine was an avid outdoorsman and hosted his own hunting and fishing show. He passed away in 1977 from leukemia.
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Tex Ritter
Tex Ritter (January 12, 1905 Murvaul-January 2, 1974 Nashville) a.k.a. Woodward Maurice Ritter or America's Most Beloved Cowboy was an American actor and singer. His children are called John Ritter and Tom Ritter.
Tex Ritter had a successful career in country music, with hits such as "I'm Wastin' My Tears on You" and "Jealous Heart". He also acted in over 80 films, often playing the role of a singing cowboy. Ritter was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1964 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. In addition to his famous sons, John and Tom, Ritter had another son named Tyler, and a daughter named Carlyle. He was married twice, first to actress Dorothy Fay and later to Martha White. Ritter passed away at the age of 68 from a heart attack.
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Dore Schary
Dore Schary (August 31, 1905 Newark-July 7, 1980 New York City) also known as Isidore Schary, Jeb Schary, Isadore Schary, Dory Schary, A Dore Schary Presentation, Isadore "Dore" Schary or Dore was an American screenwriter, film producer, film director, actor and playwright. He had one child, Jill Robinson.
Schary began his career as a writer for the stage and later moved into the film industry. He became head of production at MGM in 1948 and was responsible for producing films such as "An American in Paris" and "Singin' in the Rain." However, Schary's tenure at MGM was marked by conflicts with studio executives and he left in 1956 to become an independent producer.
Throughout his career, Schary was a vocal advocate for civil rights and worked to promote social issues through his films. He was a member of the Anti-Defamation League and served as its national chairman from 1964-1968. Schary was also a member of the National Council on the Arts and was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964.
In addition to his work in film and activism, Schary was also an accomplished author. He wrote several books including "Heyday: An Autobiography" and "Beginning Again: An Autobiography of the Years 1911-1918."
Schary died in 1980 in New York City at the age of 74.
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Cliff Arquette
Cliff Arquette (December 27, 1905 Toledo-September 23, 1974 Burbank) also known as Clifford Arquette, Clifford Charles "Cliff" Arquette, Clifford Charles Arquette, Charlie Weaver or Charley Weaver was an American comedian, actor, composer, pianist and songwriter. He had one child, Lewis Arquette.
Arquette began his career as a pianist and composer, writing songs for films in the 1930s. He later transitioned to comedy, performing in vaudeville shows and on radio programs such as "The Jack Benny Program." He became known for his character of Charley Weaver, a lovable old storyteller with a unique sense of humor, appearing on various TV shows including "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson." Arquette also acted in several films, including Disney's "The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin." In addition to his entertainment career, Arquette was also a sculptor and painter. He passed away in 1974 at the age of 68.
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Joel McCrea
Joel McCrea (November 5, 1905 South Pasadena-October 20, 1990 Woodland Hills) also known as Joel Albert McCrea or McFee was an American actor. His children are called Jody McCrea, David McCrea, Peter McCrea and Mona Leigh McCrea.
Joel McCrea started his acting career in the late 1920s and went on to star in over 90 films, ranging from Westerns to romantic comedies. He was known for his calm and understated acting style and his on-screen partnership with actress Barbara Stanwyck. Some of his notable films include "The Most Dangerous Game" (1932), "Foreign Correspondent" (1940), "The Palm Beach Story" (1942), and "Ride the High Country" (1962).
Outside of his successful acting career, Joel McCrea was also a skilled horseman and a passionate outdoorsman. He owned a ranch in New Mexico where he spent much of his free time hunting and fishing. Additionally, he served as President of the Motion Picture & Television Relief Fund, which provided financial assistance to those in the entertainment industry in need.
Joel McCrea retired from acting in the late 1960s and passed away in 1990 at the age of 84. He was remembered as a beloved actor and a true gentleman both on and off screen.
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Charles Lane
Charles Lane (January 26, 1905 San Francisco-July 9, 2007 Santa Monica) also known as Charles Gerstle Levison, Charles Levison, Charles Levinson, Charlie Lane or Charles L. Lane was an American actor and voice actor. His children are called Tom Lane and Alice Lane.
Lane started his acting career in the 1920s as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television in the 1930s. He appeared in over 350 film and television productions in a career spanning seven decades. His notable film credits include "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town", "Twentieth Century", and "It's a Wonderful Life". Lane is also known for his extensive work as a voice actor, including the voice of the lawyer in the Disney classic "Lady and the Tramp". Along with his acting career, Lane was also a dedicated philanthropist and served as the treasurer for the Screen Actors Guild.
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Leo Durocher
Leo Durocher (July 27, 1905 West Springfield-October 7, 1991 Palm Springs) also known as Leo Ernest Durocher, The All-American Out, Lippy, Leo the Lip, Swamper or Leo the Lip (Leo-the-lip) was an American baseball player and actor. His child is called Chris Durocher.
Durocher played for multiple major league teams, including the New York Yankees, Brooklyn Dodgers, and Chicago Cubs, during his 17-year career as a player. He later became a manager, leading teams such as the Brooklyn Dodgers, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Durocher is often remembered for his fiery personality and his famous quote, "Nice guys finish last." As an actor, he appeared in several films and television shows, including "The Pride of St. Louis" and "The Rifleman." After retiring from baseball, Durocher worked as a television broadcaster for the Montreal Expos. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994.
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Sanford Meisner
Sanford Meisner (August 31, 1905 Brooklyn-February 2, 1997 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. Sandy Meisner was an American actor and teacher.
He studied acting at the Theatre Guild Dramatic School and made his Broadway debut in 1931. Meisner went on to act in several productions and was a founding member of the Group Theatre. He also worked extensively in theater and television throughout his career.
Meisner is perhaps best known for developing the Meisner technique, a widely recognized acting technique used by many actors today. He taught the technique at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City, where he was on faculty from 1935 to 1990.
Beyond his work as an actor and teacher, Meisner was also an advocate for civil rights and social justice. He was a member of the Actors' Equity Association and actively campaigned against discrimination in the entertainment industry.
Despite having retired from teaching in 1990, Meisner's legacy continues through the numerous actors and teachers who still utilize and teach his technique. He is considered one of the most influential acting teachers of the 20th century.
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Sterling Holloway
Sterling Holloway (January 4, 1905 Cedartown-November 22, 1992 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Sterling Price Holloway Jr., Sterling Halloway, Holloway or Sterling Price Holloway, Jr. was an American actor and voice actor. His child is called Richard Holloway.
Holloway began his acting career in the 1920s, appearing in numerous silent films. He later transitioned into voice acting, lending his voice to some of the most iconic animated characters in history, including Winnie the Pooh, the Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland, and Kaa in The Jungle Book. In addition to his voice work, Holloway also had a successful career in television, appearing in shows such as The Life of Riley and The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Despite his prolific career, Holloway was known for his humility and kind spirit. Outside of his career, Holloway was an accomplished amateur photographer and often captured images of his fellow actors on set.
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Howard McNear
Howard McNear (January 27, 1905 Los Angeles-January 3, 1969 San Fernando) also known as Howard Terbell McNear was an American actor and voice actor. His child is called Christopher McNear.
McNear is best known for his role as Floyd Lawson, the barber in the TV series "The Andy Griffith Show". He reprised his role in the spin-off series "Mayberry R.F.D.". He also appeared on other popular TV shows such as "Gunsmoke," "The Twilight Zone," and "Hogan's Heroes". In addition to his acting career, McNear also lent his voice to several Warner Bros. cartoons, including voicing the character of Taz in a few episodes. Despite suffering a stroke in 1967 which left him partially paralyzed and unable to walk, McNear continued to appear in a few TV shows and movies until his passing in 1969.
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Albert Dekker
Albert Dekker (December 20, 1905 Brooklyn-May 5, 1968 Hollywood) also known as Albert Decker, Albert Van Ecke, Thomas Albert Ecke Van Dekker or Albert van Dekker was an American politician and actor. He had three children, John Van Dekker, Benjamin Van Dekker and Jan Van Dekker.
As an actor, Albert Dekker had a successful career in film, television, and theater. He appeared in over 70 films, including "Dr. Cyclops" (1940), "The Killers" (1946), and "Kiss Me Deadly" (1955). In addition to his work in Hollywood, he also performed on Broadway and originated the role of Dr. Jekyll/Mr. Hyde in the stage production of "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde."
In addition to his acting career, Dekker was also involved in politics. He served as a Democratic member of the California State Assembly from 1945 to 1946 and was a vocal advocate for social justice and civil rights.
Dekker's death in 1968 was controversial and surrounded in mystery. He was found dead in his Hollywood home, hanging from a rope and naked, with explicit writing scrawled on his body. Despite rumors of foul play, the death was ruled a suicide by the Los Angeles County Coroner's office.
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William Gargan
William Gargan (July 17, 1905 Brooklyn-February 17, 1979 New York) a.k.a. William Dennis Gargan, Bill Gargan or Bill was an American actor.
He appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career, often portraying tough-talking detectives or hard-nosed newspapermen. Some of his notable film credits include "Bullets or Ballots" (1936), "They Knew What They Wanted" (1940), and "The Bells of St. Mary's" (1945). Gargan also had a successful radio career and was the host of his own show, "Barrie Craig, Confidential Investigator." Later in life, Gargan suffered from throat cancer and had to have his larynx removed, which ended his acting and radio career. He wrote a book about his experience entitled "In the Case of Identical Symptoms."
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Thomas Gomez
Thomas Gomez (July 10, 1905 New York City-June 18, 1971 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Sabino Tomas Gomez, S. Thomas Gomez or Thomas Sabino Gomez was an American actor.
Throughout his acting career, Thomas Gomez appeared in more than 90 films and was known for his deep voice and imposing presence. He often played villains in Westerns and film noirs, but also took on character roles in dramas and comedies. Gomez received critical acclaim for his role in the film "Force of Evil" in 1948, and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in "Ride the Pink Horse" in 1947. In addition to his film work, Gomez also appeared in numerous television shows, including "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "Bonanza." Prior to his acting career, Gomez worked as a journalist and radio announcer.
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Gilbert Roland
Gilbert Roland (December 11, 1905 Ciudad Juárez-May 15, 1994 Beverly Hills) also known as Luis Alonso, Amigo, Luis Antonio Dámaso de Alonso or Luis Antonio Damaso de Alonso was an American actor. His children are called Gyl Roland and Lorinda Roland.
Gilbert Roland was born Luis Antonio Damaso de Alonso in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, Mexico, and raised in Texas. He began his career in Hollywood in 1927 as an extra in silent films, and eventually became a leading man in the 1930s and 1940s. He appeared in over 100 films, including "The Bad and the Beautiful," "The Sea Hawk," and "Around the World in 80 Days."
In addition to his acting career, Roland was also an accomplished musician and performed in several Western bands. He was a fluent speaker of English, Spanish, and French, which allowed him to play a variety of roles throughout his career.
Roland was married three times and had two children. He continued to act in films and on television into his 80s, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. He passed away in Beverly Hills in 1994 at the age of 88.
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Arthur Lake
Arthur Lake (April 17, 1905 Corbin-January 9, 1987 Indian Wells) also known as Arthur Silverlake, Arthur Silverlake, Jr. or Arthur William Lake was an American actor. He had two children, Mary Collins and Arthur Patrick Lake.
Lake was best known for his role as Dagwood Bumstead in the Blondie film series which he starred in from 1938 to 1950. He began his acting career in 1920 and appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, including a notable role in the 1946 film "It's a Wonderful Life". In addition to his film work, Lake also had a successful career in radio, portraying Dagwood in the "Blondie" radio program. Later in his career, Lake transitioned into producing and directing, and worked on several documentary films in the 1960s. Despite his successful acting career, Lake struggled with alcoholism throughout his life and ultimately passed away from a heart attack at the age of 81.
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Marvin Hatley
Marvin Hatley (April 3, 1905 Reed-August 23, 1986 Hollywood) also known as Thomas Marvin Hatley, T. Marvin Hatley or The Ranch Boys was an American film score composer, conductor, actor, author and music director.
Hatley is best known for his work as a composer for the films of Laurel and Hardy. He composed many popular tunes for the duo, including the iconic "Dance of the Cuckoos" which became their signature theme song. Hatley also acted in small roles in several Laurel and Hardy films, and even appeared in some of their musical numbers. In addition to his work in film, Hatley was active as a composer and conductor for radio and television. He also authored several instructional books on music theory and composition. In 1994, he was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
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Philip Ahn
Philip Ahn (March 29, 1905 Highland Park-February 28, 1978 Los Angeles) also known as Pil Lip Ahn, Phillip Ahn, Phil Ahn, Philson Wong, Philip Ann, An Pil-lip or An P'il-rip was an American actor and restaurateur.
He was the first Asian American male actor to be a regular on a television series, appearing on "The Korean Conflict" in 1952. Ahn also appeared in over 180 films and TV shows, including "Thoroughly Modern Millie" and "Kung Fu". He was renowned for his skill in martial arts and often played villains in his roles. In addition to his acting career, Ahn owned and ran a successful restaurant in Los Angeles called the Korea House. He was also a vocal advocate for Korean-American rights and served as an advisor to the Korean National Association. Ahn passed away in 1978 at the age of 72.
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Sam Levene
Sam Levene (August 28, 1905 Russia-December 28, 1980 New York City) a.k.a. Samuel Levine was an American actor.
Levene began his career as a stage actor in Yiddish theater and moved on to Broadway productions in the 1920s. He then transitioned to film in the 1930s and had a successful career in Hollywood as a character actor, appearing in over 50 films. He was particularly known for his roles in the film noir genre, including "The Killers" and "Brute Force." Levene returned to the stage in the 1950s and continued to act in both theater and television until his death in 1980. He is remembered for his distinctive New York accent and his ability to portray tough, streetwise characters.
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Frank Faylen
Frank Faylen (December 8, 1905 St. Louis-August 2, 1985 Burbank) a.k.a. Frank Ruf was an American actor. He had two children, Catherine Faylen and Carol Faylen.
Faylen is best known for his roles in classic films such as It's a Wonderful Life (1946), The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis (1959–1963), and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (1947). He began his career as a vaudevillian and appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his notable television appearances include The Andy Griffith Show, Perry Mason, and The Beverly Hillbillies. Faylen also served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
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Roger Edens
Roger Edens (November 9, 1905 Hillsboro-July 13, 1970 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Edens, Roger was an American film producer, actor, music arranger and film score composer.
He worked for several major film studios including MGM where he produced and arranged music for many of their classic musical films such as "Singin' in the Rain" and "The Wizard of Oz". Edens also won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "You'll Never Know" from the film "Hello, Frisco, Hello" in 1944. In addition to his work in film, Edens also worked in Broadway productions and composed music for radio programs. He passed away in 1970 at the age of 64.
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John Hoyt
John Hoyt (October 5, 1905 Bronxville-September 15, 1991 Santa Cruz) otherwise known as John Hoysradt or John McArthur Hoysradt was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the 1930s and appeared in over 200 films and television shows during his lifetime. Some of his notable roles include playing psychiatrist Dr. Chapman in the classic sci-fi film "When Worlds Collide" (1951), Mr. Mackey in the drama film "The Big Combo" (1955), and Grandpa Zebulon Walton in the TV series "The Waltons" (1972-1981). In addition to his acting career, Hoyt was also a drama teacher and founded the drama department at Beverly Hills High School. He passed away in 1991 at the age of 85.
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Jiří Voskovec
Jiří Voskovec (June 19, 1905 Sázava-July 1, 1981 Pearblossom) also known as Jiri Voskovec, Jiří Wachsmann, Voskovec, Jiří, Jiri Wachsmann, George Voskovec, Petr Dolan, Wookovec, Jirí Voskovec, Jirí Wachsmann, Jiri Vaksman or Václav Voskovec was an American actor, playwright, poet, screenwriter, translator, songwriter and theatre director. His children are called Victoria Voskovec and Georgeanne Voskovec.
Born in Czechoslovakia, Voskovec was also a co-founder of the avant-garde theater group, the Liberated Theater, along with Jan Werich. Together, they created satirical plays critical of the political and social climate of their time. In the 1930s, Voskovec and Werich emigrated to the United States and continued their theatrical careers, performing in Broadway productions and in films. Voskovec also wrote and translated several plays, including the Czech play R.U.R. by Karel Capek, which introduced the word "robot" to the English language. He was married to actress Bozena Svobodova and remained active in the arts until his death in 1981.
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Kid Chissell
Kid Chissell (February 16, 1905 Indianapolis-November 8, 1987 Toluca Lake) otherwise known as Noble 'Kid' Chissel, Noble Chisman, Noble LaPorte Chisman, Kid Chissel, N. 'Kid' Chissell or Noble 'Kid' Chissell was an American actor and professional boxer.
He started his boxing career in the early 1920s and became a well-known welterweight contender. In 1926, Chissell made his professional acting debut in the movie "The Campus Flirt" and went on to appear in over 45 films throughout his career. He played mostly small roles and often portrayed boxers or tough guys. Some of his notable films include "The Champ" (1931), "King Kong" (1933), and "Gone with the Wind" (1939). In addition to his acting career, Chissell also worked as a boxing trainer and a fight choreographer for films. After retiring from both boxing and acting, he worked as a security guard at Warner Bros. Studios until his death in 1987.
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Bill Raisch
Bill Raisch (April 5, 1905 North Bergen-July 31, 1984 Santa Monica) also known as Carl William Raisch was an American actor and dancer.
He is best known for his role as the one-armed man in the television series "The Fugitive" from 1963-1967. Prior to that, Raisch worked as a dancer in vaudeville and performed in several Broadway shows. He also appeared in a number of films, including "Riot in Cell Block 11" and "The Right Stuff." In addition to his acting career, Raisch was also a skilled horse trainer and had a passion for automobiles. He was married to his wife, Margaret, for 53 years until his death in 1984.
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"Rags" Ragland
"Rags" Ragland (August 23, 1905 Louisville-August 20, 1946 Los Angeles) also known as John Lee Morgan Beauregard Ragland or 'Rags' Ragland was an American actor.
Rags Ragland was best known for his comedic roles in films and television shows. He began his career as a vaudeville performer before making his way to Hollywood in the 1930s. He appeared in over 50 films during his career, including "It Ain't Hay" and "The Sin of Harold Diddlebock". He often played the role of the lovable sidekick to the leading actor. However, his career was cut short when he passed away at the young age of 40 due to a heart attack. Despite his short career, Rags Ragland remains a beloved figure in American cinema history.
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Teru Shimada
Teru Shimada (November 17, 1905 Mito-June 19, 1988 Encino) a.k.a. Akira Shimada or Teru Shumada was an American actor.
Born in Mito, Japan, Shimada immigrated to the United States in the late 1920s and began his acting career in Hollywood in the 1930s. He is best known for his roles in films such as The Mysterians, Tokyo Joe, and Three Little Words. Shimada also made several notable television appearances, including on The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and The Green Hornet. Outside of acting, he was a passionate collector of Japanese art and served as a consultant for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Shimada was married twice and had two children. He passed away in Encino, California in 1988 at the age of 82.
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Grant Withers
Grant Withers (January 17, 1905 Pueblo-March 27, 1959 North Hollywood) also known as Granville G. Withers was an American actor, film producer, journalist and salesperson.
He began his acting career in the silent film era and appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, working with legendary directors such as John Ford and Howard Hawks. Some of his notable movie roles include "G-Men" (1935), "The Hurricane" (1937), and "Fort Apache" (1948). Withers also produced several films, including "Heart of the Rockies" (1951).
In addition to his work in cinema, Withers was a respected journalist and wrote for various newspapers including the Los Angeles Examiner and the Hollywood Citizen-News. He also worked as a salesperson for a time, selling real estate in the San Fernando Valley.
Despite his successful career, Withers struggled with personal challenges, including financial difficulties and a series of failed marriages. Tragically, he took his own life in 1959 at the age of 54.
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Eddie Anderson
Eddie Anderson (September 18, 1905 Oakland-February 28, 1977 Los Angeles) also known as Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, Edward Anderson, Anderson, Eddie "Rochester", Edmund Lincoln Anderson, Edmund L. Anderson, Rochester or Edmund Lincoln "Eddie" Anderson was an American actor and comedian. His children are called Eddie Anderson, Jr., Stephanie Anderson, Evangela Anderson, Jr. and Billy Anderson.
Anderson is perhaps best known for his role as Jack Benny's valet on The Jack Benny Program. He played the character of Rochester for over 20 years and was the first African American to have a regular role on a national radio broadcast. Anderson started his career in show business in the 1920s as a dancer and eventually made his way to Hollywood, where he appeared in films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "Green Pastures." He also had a successful career in television, appearing in shows like "Beulah" and "The Red Skelton Hour." Anderson was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1976, one year before his death.
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Nestor Paiva
Nestor Paiva (June 30, 1905 Fresno-September 9, 1966 Hollywood) a.k.a. Nestor Caetano Paiva, Nestor Pavia or Nester Paiva was an American actor. His children are called Caetana Paiva and Joseph Paiva.
Paiva began his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in small roles in films such as "Dimples" and "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm." Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, he continued to work steadily as a character actor, appearing in such notable films as "For Whom the Bell Tolls," "Malaya," and "The Ten Commandments." He was also a regular performer on television, appearing on shows such as "The Lone Ranger," "The Adventures of Superman," and "Perry Mason." In addition to his acting work, Paiva was also a skilled painter and sculptor, and many of his works were exhibited in galleries throughout California. He passed away in Hollywood on September 9, 1966 at the age of 61.
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Bob Wills
Bob Wills (March 6, 1905 Kosse-May 13, 1975 Fort Worth) a.k.a. Bob Willis, Wills, Bob, The King of Western Swing, James Robert Wills, Jim Rob, Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys or Bob was an American songwriter, singer, fiddler and actor.
Born in Texas, Wills started his musical career playing in traveling medicine shows and later on, forming his own band named Texas Playboys in 1934. He became known for blending the sounds of country music with jazz and blues, which came to be known as western swing. Wills and his band released multiple hits and were immensely popular during the 1930s and 1940s.
Apart from his music career, Wills also appeared in several films including "Blazing the Western Trail," and "Take Me Back to Oklahoma." He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1968, and his influence can be seen on numerous artists who followed in the western swing genre. Bob Wills is regarded as one of the pioneers of country music and an icon of the western swing sound that continues to influence new generations of musicians.
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Jule Styne
Jule Styne (December 31, 1905 London-September 20, 1994 New York City) a.k.a. Jules Styne, Julius Kerwin Styne, Julie, Julius Kerwin Stein or Julie Styne was an American songwriter, film score composer, television producer, actor and writer.
During his career, Jule Styne wrote music for over 1,500 songs, 37 feature films, and numerous Broadway productions. He is perhaps most well-known for his collaborations with lyricist Stephen Sondheim on the musicals Gypsy and Funny Girl. Styne was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1972 and the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1981. In addition to his music career, Styne was a passionate philanthropist, supporting causes such as Israel Bonds, the Heart Fund, and the fight against AIDS.
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Carleton Young
Carleton Young (October 21, 1905 New York City-November 7, 1994 Burbank) a.k.a. Carleton Scott Young, Gordon Roberts, Carleton G. Young, Carlton Young or Carleton E. Young was an American actor.
He appeared in over 200 films and TV shows throughout his career, often portraying authoritative figures such as military officers or law enforcement officials. Young began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood in the 1930s. Some of his most notable film credits include "The Three Musketeers" (1935), "The Ten Commandments" (1956) and "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" (1962). He also made numerous TV appearances, including roles on "The Lone Ranger", "Perry Mason", and "Gunsmoke". Despite his prolific acting career, Young was also a talented military strategist, having served as a Major General in the United States Marine Corps during World War II.
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Eddie Foy, Jr.
Eddie Foy, Jr. (February 4, 1905 New Rochelle-July 15, 1983 Woodland Hills) also known as Edwin Fitzgerald Foy Jr., Seven Little Foys, Eddie Foy, Eddie Foy Jr., the Seven Little Foys, Edwin Fitzgerald, Jr. or Edwin Fitzgerald Jr. was an American actor and vaudeville performer. His child is called Eddie Foy III.
Eddie Foy Jr. came from a family of performers; his father, Eddie Foy, was a famous vaudeville entertainer in the early 20th century. As a child, Foy Jr. began performing with his siblings in the family's traveling vaudeville act, the Seven Little Foys. He later went on to perform solo in various stage productions, as well as in films and on television.
Foy Jr. appeared in a number of Hollywood films over the course of his career, including "Kid Millions," "The Lemon Drop Kid," and "Anything Goes." He also had a successful television career in the 1950s and 60s, appearing on shows such as "Playhouse 90" and "The Twilight Zone."
In addition to his work on stage and screen, Foy Jr. was also a talented songwriter and musician. He wrote a number of popular songs, including "Beau Soir," which was recorded by Frank Sinatra and became a hit in 1968.
Foy Jr. was married three times and had four children. He passed away in 1983 at the age of 78.
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Harry Barris
Harry Barris (November 24, 1905 New York City-December 13, 1962 Burbank) also known as The Rhythm Boys was an American singer, songwriter and actor. He had two children, Hazelle Dare and Marti Barris.
Barris was a multi-talented artist who began his career as a pianist and singer in the 1920s. He later joined the vocal trio The Rhythm Boys, which included him, Bing Crosby, and Al Rinker. The group became known for their jazz-influenced vocal harmonies and performed with famous bandleaders such as Paul Whiteman and Duke Ellington.
As a songwriter, Barris is best known for co-writing the popular jazz standard "Mississippi Mud" with James Cavanaugh and Jack Yellen. The song has been recorded by numerous artists over the years and was featured in the film "The Singing Fool" starring Al Jolson.
In addition to his music career, Barris also acted in films and television shows, including appearances on "The Jack Benny Program" and "The Abbott and Costello Show." He also contributed music and lyrics to several movies during the 1930s and 1940s.
Barris passed away in 1962 at the age of 57 from lung cancer. Despite his relatively short career, he left behind a lasting impact on American music and entertainment.
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Harry Bellaver
Harry Bellaver (February 12, 1905 Hillsboro-August 8, 1993 Nyack) was an American actor. He had two children, Lee Bellaver and Vaughn Bellaver-Allentuck.
Bellaver began his career as a stage actor in New York City, performing in both Broadway productions and off-Broadway shows. In the 1940s, he transitioned to film and television, appearing in numerous movies and TV shows throughout the following decades. Bellaver is perhaps best known for his role as Sgt. Frank Arcaro in the TV series "Naked City," which aired from 1958 to 1963. He also appeared on popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Outer Limits," and "Perry Mason." Bellaver continued to act until his death in 1993 at the age of 88.
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Mushy Callahan
Mushy Callahan (November 3, 1905 New York City-June 18, 1986 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Vincent Morris Scheer was an American professional boxer and actor.
Callahan began his boxing career in the late 1910s and quickly rose to prominence in the welterweight division. He fought professionally from 1920 to 1935 and had a record of 108 wins, 24 losses, 10 draws, and 1 no contest. He was known for his excellent footwork and defensive skills, and he won the welterweight championship of the world in 1926.
After retiring from boxing, Callahan turned his attention to acting. He appeared in over 50 films and television shows from the 1930s to the 1960s, often playing tough guys or gangsters. Some of his notable film appearances include "They Drive by Night" (1940), "The Grapes of Wrath" (1940), and "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1946).
Callahan was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003, and his legacy as both a boxer and an actor continues to be celebrated today.
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John Emery
John Emery (May 20, 1905 New York City-November 16, 1964 New York City) was an American actor.
He began his career on Broadway and later transitioned to film, appearing in over 50 films throughout his career. Emery was known for his elegant and sophisticated demeanor, often playing aristocratic or villainous characters. He was also a talented stage actor, earning a Tony nomination for his role in the play "The Fourposter". In addition to his acting work, Emery was also an accomplished painter and sculptor, with his works being exhibited in galleries across the country. Despite his success, Emery struggled with depression and alcoholism, which ultimately led to his untimely death at the age of 59.
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Joe Palma
Joe Palma (March 17, 1905 New York City-August 14, 1994 Poway) also known as Joseph Provenzano, Joseph Palma or Joe Polino was an American actor, stunt performer and mortician.
Joe Palma began his career in Hollywood as a stunt performer in several films, including "The Wild One" and "Lust for Life". He also acted in small roles in films such as "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and "The Gunfighter". However, Palma is perhaps best known for his work as a stand-in and body double for comedian and actor, Groucho Marx. Palma played the character of "Fake Groucho" in several Marx Brothers films, including "A Night in Casablanca" and "Love Happy".
In addition to his acting career, Joe Palma was trained as a mortician and owned his own funeral home in southern California. He continued to work in the funeral industry even while pursuing his passion for acting. Palma retired from acting in the 1960s and continued to run his funeral home until his death in 1994.
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Frederick O'Neal
Frederick O'Neal (August 27, 1905 Brooksville-August 25, 1992 New York City) otherwise known as The Memphis Naturals or Fred O'Neal was an American actor, theatrical producer and television director.
O'Neal began his career as a stage actor and producer in the 1920s, eventually founding his own theater company in the 1940s. He acted in numerous plays and musicals, including several productions of the landmark play "The Emperor Jones" by Eugene O'Neill. O'Neal also appeared in a number of films throughout his career, including "Cotton Comes to Harlem" and "Car Wash."
In addition to his work on stage and screen, O'Neal was also a leader in the entertainment industry. He served as the president of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and was a founding member of the Negro Actors Guild of America.
Later in life, O'Neal turned to directing for television, working on a number of popular shows such as "The Cosby Show" and "A Different World." He was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and served as a mentor to many young actors and performers.
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John Dierkes
John Dierkes (February 10, 1905 Cincinnati-January 8, 1975 Los Angeles) otherwise known as John Dierkies was an American actor, economist and character actor.
He began his career in show business as a performer in vaudeville and burlesque before transitioning to film and television. Dierkes appeared in over 180 movies and TV shows over the course of his career, often playing small but memorable roles in classic films such as "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and "Shane." In addition to his acting work, he was also an economist and taught at the New School for Social Research in New York City. Dierkes was known for his distinctive voice and appearance, often playing grizzled and rugged characters.
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Kay Kyser
Kay Kyser (June 18, 1905 Rocky Mount-July 23, 1985 Chapel Hill) also known as Ky Kyser, Kyser, Kay, James King Kern Kyser, Kay Kyser and His Kollege of Musical Knowledge, The Ol' Perfessor or Kay Kyser's Band was an American bandleader, actor and singer. He had three children, Carroll Amanda, Amanda Kay and Kimberly Kyser.
Kyser began his career as a bandleader in the 1930s, quickly gaining popularity with his "swing and sway" style. He became a regular on radio programs and even hosted his own show, "Kay Kyser's Kollege of Musical Knowledge." Through his music and showmanship, Kyser became one of the most popular bandleaders of the era.
Aside from his music career, Kyser also acted in several films, including "That's Right-You're Wrong" and "You'll Find Out," alongside stars such as Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff.
Kyser retired from music and entertainment in the 1950s to focus on his family and his Christian faith. He passed away in 1985 at the age of 80.
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Mischa Auer
Mischa Auer (November 17, 1905 Saint Petersburg-March 5, 1967 Rome) also known as Mischa Ounskowsky, Micha Auer, Mischa Aver, Mikhail Semyonovich Unskovsky, Михаил Семёнович Унсковский or Misha Auer was an American actor. He had three children, Zoe Auer, Anthony Auer and Mischa Auer Jr..
Mischa Auer was born to a family of actors and grew up in Russia. He made his debut in the film industry in 1928 and appeared in various films across Europe before emigrating to the United States in the mid-1930s. In Hollywood, Auer's unique accent and comedic timing made him a popular character actor, and he went on to appear in over 100 films throughout his career. Some of his most notable roles include his portrayal of the eccentric Russian Grand Duke in the 1939 film "Ninotchka" and parts in "Destry Rides Again" and "My Man Godfrey." Auer also acted on Broadway and television, with one of his most memorable TV appearances being on "The Jack Benny Show" in 1953. Outside of acting, Auer was an avid collector of stamps and coins, and he enjoyed playing the accordion. He passed away in Rome in 1967 at the age of 61.
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Ray Kellogg
Ray Kellogg (November 15, 1905 Council Bluffs-July 5, 1976 Ontario) also known as Edgar R. Kellogg, Edgar Ray Kellogg or Kellogg was an American actor, screenwriter, film director and film producer.
Kellogg began his career in Hollywood as an actor in the 1920s before transitioning to screenwriting and directing. He worked on a number of B-movies and low-budget films throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Some of his most notable work includes directing the 1959 horror film, The Giant Gila Monster, and producing the 1963 western, McLintock!, starring John Wayne. Kellogg also wrote the screenplay for the 1944 film noir classic, Double Indemnity.
In addition to his work in the film industry, Kellogg served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a member of the Hollywood Writers Guild. He passed away at the age of 70 in Ontario, California.
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Edmon Ryan
Edmon Ryan (June 5, 1905 Cecilia-August 4, 1984 Louisville) also known as Edmon Ryan Mossberger, Edmund Ryan, Edmond Ryan or Edmon Ryan Mossbarger was an American actor, teacher and coach. He had one child, Hilary Ryan.
Ryan began his career on stage, working in various productions on Broadway including "The Philadelphia Story" and "The Male Animal." He later transitioned to film, appearing in more than 60 movies throughout his career. Some of his notable films include "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers," "Pollyanna," and "The Young Lions."
In addition to his work as an actor, Ryan was also a respected acting teacher and coach. He taught at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and the Actors Studio, where he mentored some of Hollywood's biggest stars including Marlon Brando and Anne Bancroft.
Ryan was known for his deep, resonant voice and commanding presence on screen. He continued to work in the entertainment industry until his death in 1984.
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Nelson Leigh
Nelson Leigh (January 1, 1905 Mississippi-July 3, 1985 Hemet) also known as Sydney Talbot Christie was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the theater, appearing in numerous productions on and off-broadway. In the 1950s, Leigh transitioned to television and film, landing roles in popular programs such as Gunsmoke and Perry Mason. He later played supporting roles in films like The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance and The Sons of Katie Elder. Leigh was also a prolific voice actor in radio dramas and cartoons, including the original 1940s Superman radio series and the animated series Underdog. Over the course of his career, Leigh made appearances in over 100 films and television shows.
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Chick Chandler
Chick Chandler (January 18, 1905 Kingston-September 30, 1988 North Hollywood) also known as Fehmer Chandler or Fletcher Chandler was an American actor.
He appeared in over 120 films and television shows during his decades-long acting career. Chandler's work included both leading and supporting roles, and he was known for his versatility and range as an actor. He worked extensively in the early days of Hollywood, appearing in popular films such as "The Petrified Forest," "The Killers," and "The Invisible Woman." Later, he transitioned to television and found success on popular shows like "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet," "Bonanza," and "The Twilight Zone." In addition to his acting work, Chandler was also a talented singer and musician, and he often used these skills in his performances. Despite his prolific career, Chandler never achieved the level of fame and recognition of some of his peers, but he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry throughout his life.
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