American movie stars born in 1917
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America were born in 1917:
Robert Bray
Robert Bray (October 23, 1917 Kalispell-March 7, 1983 Bishop) a.k.a. Robert Eugene Bray, Robert E. Bray or Bob Bray was an American actor and soldier.
He grew up in Montana and attended the University of Washington before serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he began his acting career, appearing in numerous films and TV shows. He was best known for his roles in Westerns, playing the lead in the TV series "Lassie" and "Stagecoach West." Later in life, Bray moved to Bishop, California and became a successful real estate developer.
Read more about Robert Bray on Wikipedia »
John Raitt
John Raitt (January 29, 1917 Santa Ana-February 20, 2005 Pacific Palisades) also known as John Emmett Raitt was an American singer and actor. He had three children, Bonnie Raitt, David Raitt and Steven Raitt.
John Raitt rose to fame on Broadway, where he starred in a number of hit musicals such as "Carousel," "The Pajama Game," and "Oklahoma!" He was known for his powerful baritone voice and his impressive stage presence. In addition to his successful career on Broadway, Raitt also appeared in several Hollywood films, including "The Pajama Game" and "Xanadu." Later in life, he continued to perform and tour, often alongside his daughter, Grammy award-winning musician Bonnie Raitt. Raitt was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his role in "The Pajama Game." He was widely recognized as a talented performer and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Read more about John Raitt on Wikipedia »
Brad Dexter
Brad Dexter (April 9, 1917 Goldfield-December 11, 2002 Rancho Mirage) also known as Boris Michel Soso Milanovich, Barry Mitchell, Boris Malanovich, Борис Малановић, Veljko Soso or Boris Milanovich was an American actor, film producer and television producer.
He appeared in over 50 films during his career, including notable roles in "The Magnificent Seven" and "Run Silent, Run Deep". Prior to his career in acting, Dexter served in World War II and received a Purple Heart for his service. He later became involved in the production side of the film industry, producing films such as "The Four Deuces" and "House of the Damned". Dexter also had a successful career as a television producer, working on shows such as "Shotgun Slade" and "The New Breed". He was married twice and had one child.
Read more about Brad Dexter on Wikipedia »
Eddie Constantine
Eddie Constantine (October 29, 1917 Los Angeles-February 25, 1993 Wiesbaden) also known as Eddy Constantine, Constantine, Eddie, Edward Constantinowsky, Israel Constantine or Eddi Constantine was an American singer and actor. His children are called Lemmy Constantine, Barbara Constantine, Tania Constantine and Mia Bella Marie Constanine.
Eddie Constantine gained popularity for his roles in French films, particularly in the late 1950s and early 1960s. He became known for portraying the character Lemmy Caution, a hard-boiled detective, in a series of films. Constantine was fluent in both English and French, which allowed him to work in both American and European films. He recorded several songs throughout his career, including the French hit "Cigarettes, Whisky et P'tites Pépées." Constantine also made occasional appearances on television shows, including the French variety show "Les Rendez-vous du dimanche." He remained active in his career until his death in 1993 at the age of 75.
Read more about Eddie Constantine on Wikipedia »
William T. Orr
William T. Orr (September 27, 1917 New York City-December 25, 2002 Los Angeles) otherwise known as William Orr, Wm. T. Orr or Wm T. Orr was an American film producer, television producer and actor. He had one child, Gregory Orr.
William T. Orr was best known for his work as a producer on popular television shows such as "Maverick" and "77 Sunset Strip". He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in films such as "The Falcon's Alibi" and "The Story of Dr. Wassell". However, he eventually transitioned into producing and helped to launch the careers of actors such as James Garner and Clint Eastwood.
Orr worked for Warner Bros. Television for many years and was instrumental in developing their successful television division. In addition to producing, he also served as an executive producer and was involved in the creation of popular shows such as "Cheyenne", "Bronco", and "The Fugitive".
Throughout his career, Orr was recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1993. Orr passed away in 2002 at the age of 85, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of television and film.
Read more about William T. Orr on Wikipedia »
David Bauer
David Bauer (March 6, 1917 Chicago-July 13, 1973 London) also known as David Wolfe was an American actor. His child is called Alexa Bauer.
David Bauer began his acting career in the 1940s and appeared in over 70 films and TV shows during his lifetime. He was best known for his roles in the films "The Saint" and "Thunderball," as well as the TV series "The Prisoner" and "The Avengers."
Bauer's family moved to England when he was a child, and he later became a British citizen. In addition to his acting work, he was also a talented voice artist and provided voiceovers for numerous documentaries and commercials.
Bauer passed away in 1973 at the age of 56 in London. He was survived by his daughter, Alexa Bauer, who also pursued a career in acting.
Read more about David Bauer on Wikipedia »
Henderson Forsythe
Henderson Forsythe (September 11, 1917 Macon-April 17, 2006 Williamsburg) was an American actor. He had two children, Jason Forsythe and Eric Forsythe.
Forsythe was born in Macon, Georgia and grew up in nearby Charlotte, North Carolina. He began his career in the theater, eventually making his Broadway debut in the 1950s. He appeared in numerous stage productions throughout his
Read more about Henderson Forsythe on Wikipedia »
John Beradino
John Beradino (May 1, 1917 Los Angeles-May 19, 1996 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Johnny Berardino, John Berardino, John Baradino, John Barardino, John Barradino, John Bernadino, Bernie or Giovanni Berardino was an American baseball player and actor.
He played for 10 seasons as a shortstop in Major League Baseball with the St. Louis Browns and Cleveland Indians. He appeared in over 170 movies and television shows, most notably as Dr. Steve Hardy on the soap opera "General Hospital." Beradino was also a decorated World War II veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy as a gunnery officer. In addition to his acting and baseball career, he was also a successful restaurateur, owning several establishments in the Beverly Hills area. Beradino was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1981.
Read more about John Beradino on Wikipedia »
John Berry
John Berry (September 6, 1917 The Bronx-November 29, 1999 Paris) also known as Jak Szold, Jack, Jack Berry, Stuart Hofmann or Jackie Sold was an American actor, film director, film producer, screenwriter and theatre director. His children are called Dennis Berry, Arny Berry and Jan Berry.
John Berry started his career as an actor in the 1930s, appearing in Broadway productions such as "The Woofed Goof" and "Dead End". He then moved to Hollywood and began working as a film director, directing films such as "Tension" and "He Ran All the Way". Berry was known for his social realism and his films often addressed important social issues of the time, such as racism and political corruption.
In the 1950s, Berry was blacklisted during the infamous McCarthy era and was unable to work in Hollywood for several years. He moved to France in the late 1950s and continued to work as a director, producer and writer, making films such as "Claudine" and "The Bad News Bears Go to Japan".
John Berry was married three times, first to actress Myrna Dell, then to actress Patricia Roc, and finally to French actress and singer France Anglade. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1996, just a few years before his death in Paris in 1999 at the age of 82.
Read more about John Berry on Wikipedia »
Ezra Stone
Ezra Stone (December 2, 1917 New Bedford-March 3, 1994 Perth Amboy) also known as Ezra Chaim Feinstone or M/Sgt. Ezra Stone was an American actor, television director, film director and television producer. He had two children, Francine Stone and Josef Stone.
Stone began his career as an actor in the 1930s and is best known for his role as Henry Aldrich in the radio series "The Aldrich Family" which aired from 1939 to 1953. He also acted on stage, appearing on Broadway in the play "Junior Miss" and directed the film adaptation of the play in 1945.
After serving in World War II, Stone turned to directing and producing for television, working on shows such as "The Donna Reed Show" and "Mr. Ed". He also directed and produced several episodes of "The Patty Duke Show" and "Bewitched". Additionally, Stone served as the Executive Producer of the television series "Welcome Back, Kotter".
During the 1970s and 1980s, Stone continued to work in television, directing episodes of "The Love Boat", "Alice", and "Gimme a Break!". He also directed the made-for-television movie "Overboard" in 1987.
Stone was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1993 for his contributions to the television industry. He passed away the following year in Perth Amboy, New Jersey at the age of 76.
Read more about Ezra Stone on Wikipedia »
Ross Elliott
Ross Elliott (June 18, 1917 The Bronx-August 12, 1999 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Ross Elliot, Ross Elloitt or Sgt. Ross Elliot was an American actor.
He was best known for his role as Sheriff Abbott in the Western television series, The Virginian. Elliott appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career, including The Towering Inferno, The Andromeda Strain, and The Streets of San Francisco. He also made many appearances in popular TV shows such as Gunsmoke, Perry Mason, and Bonanza. Additionally, Elliott performed on stage throughout the United States, including on Broadway, and he lent his voice to numerous animated series and commercials. Before his acting career, Elliott served in the United States Army during World War II.
Read more about Ross Elliott on Wikipedia »
Robert Mitchum
Robert Mitchum (August 6, 1917 Bridgeport-July 1, 1997 Santa Barbara) also known as Robert Charles Durman Mitchum, Bob Mitchum, Old Rumple Eyes, Mitch or Bob was an American actor, composer, singer, writer, author and film producer. He had three children, Christopher Mitchum, James Mitchum and Trini Mitchum.
Mitchum was known for his rugged good looks and deep, gravelly voice, which made him a popular leading man in film noir and Westerns. His breakthrough role came in the 1945 film "The Story of G.I. Joe," which earned him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Over the course of his career, Mitchum appeared in over 100 films, including "Out of the Past," "Cape Fear," and "The Night of the Hunter." He also released several albums as a singer and songwriter, with his 1957 album "Calypso - Is Like So..." becoming a fan favorite.
Despite his success, Mitchum was known for his rebellious streak and his disdain for Hollywood's studio system. He was arrested for possession of marijuana in 1948 and famously shrugged it off, stating, "I'm not sure what's wrong with being a fan of freedom."
Mitchum continued to work in film and television until his death from lung cancer in 1997 at the age of 79. He left behind a lasting legacy in Hollywood and is remembered as one of the greatest actors of his generation.
Read more about Robert Mitchum on Wikipedia »
Dean Martin
Dean Martin (June 7, 1917 Steubenville-December 25, 1995 Beverly Hills) also known as Dino Paul Crocetti, Dino Martini, King of Cool, Kid Crochet, Martin & Lewis, Dino, King Leer, Dino Crocetti or The King of Cool was an American singer, comedian, actor, professional boxer, film producer, musician, songwriter, presenter, radio personality and businessperson. His children are called Deana Martin, Gina Martin, Dean Paul Martin, Ricci Martin, Claudia Martin, Craig Martin, Sasha Martin and Barbara Gail Martin.
Dean Martin was born in Ohio to Italian immigrant parents. He dropped out of school in the 10th grade and worked odd jobs such as a steel mill laborer and a blackjack dealer before pursuing a career in entertainment. He started off as a nightclub singer in the 1940s and gained fame as part of the comedy duo, Martin & Lewis, with Jerry Lewis. They appeared in a number of successful films together before parting ways in 1956.
Martin went on to have a successful solo career as a singer and actor, with hits like "That's Amore", "Volare", and "Everybody Loves Somebody". He also acted in numerous films such as "Ocean's Eleven" and "The Cannonball Run". In addition, he hosted his own television show, "The Dean Martin Show", which aired from 1965 to 1974.
Off-screen, Martin was known for his laid-back and often party-centric lifestyle, which earned him the nickname "The King of Cool". He was also a skilled golfer and had a passion for flying planes. In his personal life, he was married three times and had eight children.
Despite his fame and success, Martin was known for being down-to-earth and approachable, often socializing with his fans and colleagues. He passed away on Christmas Day in 1995 at the age of 78.
Read more about Dean Martin on Wikipedia »
Hans Conried
Hans Conried (March 23, 1917 Baltimore-January 5, 1982 Burbank) otherwise known as Hans Georg Conried Jr., Hans Conreid, Hans Georg Conried, Jr or Hans Georg Conried, Jr. was an American actor, voice actor, comedian and character actor. His child is called Trilby Conried.
Hans Conried began his career in radio in the 1930s and went on to appear in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. He was known for his distinctive voice and often played characters that were pompous or stuffy.
Some of his most well-known roles include the voice of Captain Hook in Disney's "Peter Pan" and Uncle Tonoose in the TV series "Make Room for Daddy." He also provided the voice for the Grinch in the animated TV special "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas!"
In addition to his acting career, Conried was also a talented artist and writer. He illustrated children's books and wrote several plays that were produced on Broadway.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Conried was never one to take himself too seriously. He was known for his quick wit and sense of humor, and he often entertained his friends with impromptu performances of songs and jokes.
Hans Conried passed away in 1982 at the age of 64 from a heart attack. He is remembered as a versatile performer and beloved character actor.
Read more about Hans Conried on Wikipedia »
Charles Drake
Charles Drake (October 2, 1917 New York City-September 10, 1994 East Lyme) also known as Charles Rupert or Charles Ruppert was an American actor.
He trained at the Pasadena Playhouse and began his career on stage before transitioning to films in the 1940s. Drake appeared in over 70 films, including "The Maltese Falcon," "Flying Tigers," "Harvey," "It Came from Outer Space," and "The Wild Bunch." He also made numerous television appearances in shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Bonanza," and "Hawaii Five-O." Drake was a decorated veteran of World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the war.
Read more about Charles Drake on Wikipedia »
Barry Nelson
Barry Nelson (April 16, 1917 San Francisco-April 7, 2007 Bucks County) also known as Cpl. Barry Nelson, Robert Haakon Nielson or Haakon Robert Nielsen was an American actor.
Barry Nelson is best known for being the first actor to portray Ian Fleming's iconic secret agent, James Bond, in a 1954 television adaptation of "Casino Royale". Aside from his role as Bond, Nelson also had an extensive career in film, television and theater spanning several decades. He starred in films such as "Airport" (1970) and "The Shining" (1980), as well as appearing in popular TV shows such as "Gunsmoke", "The Twilight Zone" and "Murder, She Wrote". In theater, he starred in several Broadway productions including the original production of "The Moon is Blue". Nelson passed away in 2007 at the age of 89.
Read more about Barry Nelson on Wikipedia »
George Gaynes
George Gaynes (May 16, 1917 Helsinki-) also known as George Jongejans is an American actor and singer. He has two children, Iya Gaynes and Matthew Gaynes.
Gaynes began his career as an actor in the 1950s, appearing in numerous Broadway productions. He made his film debut in 1964 in the movie "The Crooked Road" and continued to work on both stage and screen throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his role as Commandant Eric Lassard in the "Police Academy" movies and for his role as Henry Warnimont on the popular TV series "Punky Brewster."
In addition to acting, Gaynes was also a talented singer and appeared in several musicals throughout his career. He was known for his smooth baritone voice and performed in productions of "The Music Man," "Guys and Dolls," and "South Pacific," among others.
Gaynes died on February 15, 2016, at the age of 98.
Read more about George Gaynes on Wikipedia »
William Marshall
William Marshall (October 12, 1917 Chicago-June 8, 1994 Paris) also known as Billy Marshall, Bill Marshall or Gerard William Marshall was an American actor, singer, bandleader, film director and film producer. His children are called Tonie Marshall and Mike Marshall.
William Marshall was born in Chicago to parents who were both artists. He initially pursued a career in opera, studying at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England. Marshall served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later moved to Hollywood, where he appeared in numerous films, including "The Purple Monster Strikes" and "The Adventures of Captain Marvel". In addition to his acting career, Marshall was a talented singer and bandleader, and he recorded several albums over the course of his career. Later on, Marshall shifted his focus to directing and producing films, and he found success in these roles as well. He remained active in the entertainment industry for several decades, working on films in both the United States and Europe. Marshall was married several times over the course of his life, and he had two children, Tonie Marshall and Mike Marshall, who also went on to have successful careers in the entertainment industry.
Read more about William Marshall on Wikipedia »
Hurd Hatfield
Hurd Hatfield (December 7, 1917 New York City-December 26, 1998 Rathcormac) otherwise known as William Rukard Hurd Hatfield was an American actor.
He was known for his iconic portrayal of Dorian Gray in the 1945 film adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel "The Picture of Dorian Gray". Hatfield began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to films in the 1940s. He worked in Hollywood for several years before ultimately moving to Europe in the 1950s, where he continued to act in films and theatre productions. In addition to his acting career, Hatfield was also a skilled painter and sculptor, and his artwork was exhibited in galleries both in the United States and Europe.
Read more about Hurd Hatfield on Wikipedia »
Lash LaRue
Lash LaRue (June 15, 1917 Gretna-May 21, 1996 Burbank) also known as Alfred LaRue, Alfred "Lash" LaRue, Al LaRue, Al La Rue, Al 'Lash' La Rue, Alfred La Rue, 'Lash' La Rue, 'Lash' LaRue or Alfred Wilson LaRue was an American actor and film producer.
He was best known for his roles in Western films, where he played the hero with his signature whip. LaRue started his career as a musician, playing the guitar and the fiddle. He later joined the rodeo circuit and developed his skills as a trick roper and horseman. LaRue made his film debut in 1944 in "Song of the Range." He went on to star in over 40 Western films in his career. In 1966, he retired from acting and worked as a film producer. LaRue was also a member of the Cowboy Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He passed away in 1996 at the age of 78.
Read more about Lash LaRue on Wikipedia »
Mel Ferrer
Mel Ferrer (August 25, 1917 Elberon-June 2, 2008 Santa Barbara) also known as Melchor Ferrer, Melchor Gastón Ferrer, Melchor G. Ferrer or Melchor Gaston Ferrer was an American actor, film producer, film director and television director. His children are called Sean Hepburn Ferrer, Mark Young Ferrer, Mela Ferrer, Christopher Ferrer and Pepa Phillippa Ferrer.
Mel Ferrer was born in Elberon, New Jersey to a Cuban father and an Irish-American mother. He began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1940s. He appeared in over 50 films, including "Lili", "The Longest Day", and "War and Peace".
In addition to acting, Ferrer was also a successful film producer and director. He produced films such as "Wait Until Dark" and "Green Mansions", and directed the film "The Girl of the Golden West". He also had numerous television directing credits, including episodes of "Ironside" and "Star Trek".
Ferrer was married five times, including to actress Audrey Hepburn from 1954 to 1968. They had one son together, Sean Hepburn Ferrer. Ferrer passed away in 2008 in Santa Barbara, California at the age of 90.
Read more about Mel Ferrer on Wikipedia »
Sid Melton
Sid Melton (May 22, 1917 Brooklyn-November 2, 2011 Burbank) a.k.a. Sidney Meltzer or Sidney Melton was an American actor.
He began acting in his teenage years, appearing in vaudeville and on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. Melton appeared in over 140 films and TV shows throughout his career, often playing comedic sidekick roles. He is perhaps best known for his roles in the TV series "The Danny Thomas Show" and "Green Acres" and in the film "Lost Continent." In addition to acting, Melton was also a successful businessman, owning several restaurants in the Los Angeles area. He passed away at the age of 94 due to complications from pneumonia.
Read more about Sid Melton on Wikipedia »
Leonardo Cimino
Leonardo Cimino (November 4, 1917 Manhattan-March 3, 2012 Woodstock) also known as Leo Cimino, Leonard Cimino or Leonardo Anthony Cimino was an American actor.
He was born in Manhattan to Italian immigrant parents, and started his career in the entertainment industry as a stage actor. Cimino later transitioned to film and television, with a career spanning several decades. He appeared in over 70 films, including "Moonstruck," "Dune," and "The Cotton Club." Cimino was also a regular on the soap operas "Ryan's Hope" and "Search for Tomorrow." In addition to his acting career, Cimino was also a respected acting teacher and mentor, having worked with many actors throughout his career. He was married to the actress and singer Sharon Douglas, with whom he had two children. Leonardo Cimino passed away in 2012 at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved and accomplished performer.
Read more about Leonardo Cimino on Wikipedia »
Clifton Young
Clifton Young (September 15, 1917 Schenectady-September 10, 1951 Los Angeles) also known as Robert H. Young, Bobby 'Bonedust' Young, Our Gang, Robert H. 'Clifton' Young, Bobby Young, Robert Howard Young, Clifton, Cliffton or Robert Howard "Clifton" Young was an American actor.
He began his acting career at the age of 10 in the silent film era, and later became best known for his work in Our Gang comedies as a kid, appearing in over 40 shorts in the series. He continued acting throughout his teen and adult years, appearing in several films such as "The Sea Hound" (1947) and "One Last Fling" (1949). Young also had TV roles, including a recurring role in "The Abbott and Costello Show." Unfortunately, Young died at the age of 33 due to respiratory failure caused by alcoholism.
Read more about Clifton Young on Wikipedia »
Kenneth Tobey
Kenneth Tobey (March 23, 1917 Oakland-December 22, 2002 Rancho Mirage) also known as Kenneth Toby, Ken Tobey, Ken Tobet or Jesse Kenneth Tobey was an American actor. He had one child, Tina Tobey.
Tobey's career spanned over four decades and he appeared in over 100 films and TV shows. He is perhaps best known for his roles in classic sci-fi films such as "The Thing from Another World" (1951) and "It Came from Beneath the Sea" (1955). He also had recurring roles on popular TV series such as "Whirlybirds" and "Sea Hunt." In addition to acting, Tobey was also a talented singer and performed on stage in musicals. He served in the United States Army during World War II and was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat. Tobey passed away at the age of 85 due to natural causes.
Read more about Kenneth Tobey on Wikipedia »
Dabbs Greer
Dabbs Greer (April 2, 1917 Fairview-April 28, 2007 Pasadena) otherwise known as William Greer, Robert William Greer, Bill, Dabs Greer, Robert William "Dabbs" Greer or Dabbs was an American actor and teacher.
He was best known for his role as the Reverend Robert Alden in the television series "Little House on the Prairie." Greer began acting in the late 1930s and went on to appear in over 300 movies and television shows. Some of his notable film credits include "The Green Mile," "Blue Hawaii," and "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." Aside from his acting career, Greer was also a beloved acting teacher who taught at the Actors Studio in Los Angeles for over 20 years. He was known for his kind and nurturing approach to teaching and inspired many young actors throughout his career.
Read more about Dabbs Greer on Wikipedia »
Jack Soo
Jack Soo (October 28, 1917 Pacific Ocean-January 11, 1979 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Goro Suzuki was an American actor. He had three children, Jayne Suzuki, James Suzuki and Richard Suzuki.
Soo's parents were both immigrants from Japan, and he spent his early childhood in Oakland, California. During World War II, he and his family were forced to relocate to the Tule Lake War Relocation Center in California. After the war, he began his career in entertainment as a singer and comedian, performing in nightclubs and on television.
Soo is perhaps best known for his role as Detective Nick Yemana on the television show "Barney Miller" from 1975 until his death in 1979. He was also a regular on the game show "Match Game" during the 1970s. Soo was known for his quick wit and deadpan delivery, and he was widely respected by his fellow actors.
Tragically, Soo died at the age of 61 from esophageal cancer. He is remembered for his contributions to entertainment and for breaking down barriers for Asian-American actors in Hollywood.
Read more about Jack Soo on Wikipedia »
Max Showalter
Max Showalter (June 2, 1917 Caldwell-July 30, 2000 Middletown) otherwise known as Casey Adams was an American singer, actor, composer, pianist and songwriter.
Max Showalter had a prolific career in the entertainment industry, with over 125 film and television credits to his name. He was known for his roles in films such as "Niagara" (1953), "The Music Man" (1962) and "Sixteen Candles" (1984). He also appeared in popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "The Dick Van Dyke Show."
In addition to his acting career, Showalter was a talented musician and composer, having written songs for films and television shows. He also worked as a pianist and conductor on Broadway, performing in and composing music for shows such as "Carnival!" and "Irma la Douce."
Later in his career, Max Showalter gained a new generation of fans through his roles in John Hughes' classic '80s films, including "Sixteen Candles" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." He remained active in the entertainment industry until his death in 2000.
Read more about Max Showalter on Wikipedia »
John Newland
John Newland (November 23, 1917 Cincinnati-January 10, 2000 Los Angeles) was an American screenwriter, film director and actor.
He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in several films and TV shows. However, he is best known for his work as a director and producer, particularly in the horror and fantasy genres.
Newland directed numerous episodes of the popular TV series "One Step Beyond," which told stories of the supernatural and paranormal. He also directed episodes of "The Twilight Zone," "Thriller," and "Fantasy Island."
Aside from television, Newland also directed several feature films, including "The 4D Man" and "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark." In addition, he wrote the screenplay for the 1957 film "Invasion of the Saucer Men."
Newland was a talented and versatile filmmaker who left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. He was inducted into the Horror Hall of Fame in 2011.
Read more about John Newland on Wikipedia »
Mark Hanna
Mark Hanna (January 1, 1917 New York City-October 16, 2003 Lake Worth) also known as John Mark Cutter was an American screenwriter, actor and producer.
Hanna began his career as a screenwriter in Hollywood, working on a number of films in the 1940s and 1950s. He later transitioned to acting, appearing in both film and television. He had small roles in several popular television shows of the 1960s, including "The Twilight Zone" and "Mission: Impossible." In the 1970s, he turned to producing, and his credits include the acclaimed television movie "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." Throughout his career, Hanna was known for his versatility and his ability to work behind the scenes in a variety of capacities. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2001.
Read more about Mark Hanna on Wikipedia »
Montgomery Pittman
Montgomery Pittman (March 1, 1917 Louisiana-June 26, 1962 Hollywood) also known as Monte Pittman, Monty Pittman or Monty was an American actor, screenwriter and television director. He had two children, Sherry Jackson and Robert Jackson.
Pittman began his career as an actor in the 1940s, appearing in films such as "Charlie Chan in Honolulu" (1938) and "The Big Sleep" (1946). However, he soon transitioned into screenwriting and worked on numerous TV shows such as "Lawman," "Rawhide," and "The Twilight Zone." Pittman also directed several TV episodes of "77 Sunset Strip," "The Donna Reed Show," and "Perry Mason."
In addition to his work in the film and TV industry, Pittman was also a published author who wrote several books, including "Murder in Black and White" (1955) and "Launch Out into the Deep" (1959). However, his life was tragically cut short when he committed suicide at the age of 45. Despite his untimely death, Pittman left behind a legacy as a talented writer and director who contributed greatly to the world of television.
Read more about Montgomery Pittman on Wikipedia »
Nathan Davis
Nathan Davis (May 22, 1917 Chicago-October 15, 2008 Chicago) a.k.a. Nate Davis was an American actor. His children are called Andrew Davis, Richard Peter Davis and Jo Ellen Friedman.
Throughout his career, Nathan Davis appeared in over 40 films and television shows, including "The Blues Brothers," "Malcolm X," and "Amityville II: The Possession." He also received critical acclaim for his stage work, earning a Joseph Jefferson Award for his performance in "Home" and an Obie Award for his role in "The Great White Hope." Davis was also a teacher and mentor, serving as a faculty member at the Theater School at DePaul University in Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago. In addition, he was a founding member of the city's Black Ensemble Theater. Nathan Davis passed away in 2008 at the age of 91.
Read more about Nathan Davis on Wikipedia »
R. G. Armstrong
R. G. Armstrong (April 7, 1917 Pleasant Grove-July 27, 2012 Studio City) also known as Robert Golden Armstrong, R.K. Armstrong, Robert Armstrong, Bob, R.G. Armstrong, Robert Golden Armstrong, Jr. or Robert Golden Armstrong Jr. was an American actor and playwright. He had five children, Robbie Armstrong-Dunham, Laurie Nell Armstrong, Daryl Armstrong, Betty Armstrong and Wynn Armstrong.
Armstrong was born in Pleasant Grove, Alabama and raised in nearby Birmingham. He served in the US Army during World War II before attending the Actors Studio in New York City. He began his acting career on stage, appearing in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
In the late 1950s, Armstrong began working in film and television. He appeared in over 80 films including "El Dorado," "Predator," and "The Car." He became known for playing tough, no-nonsense characters, often in Westerns.
Armstrong was also a prolific playwright, penning several plays throughout his life. He was a founding member of the Off-Off-Broadway movement, which sought to create theater that was more experimental and challenging than what was currently being produced on Broadway.
Throughout his career, Armstrong received numerous accolades for his work in both acting and playwriting. He passed away in 2012 at the age of 95.
Read more about R. G. Armstrong on Wikipedia »
Ted Thurston
Ted Thurston (January 9, 1917 Saint Paul-July 23, 1994) was an American actor.
He started his career as a stage actor in the 1930s before transitioning to television in the 1950s. Thurston appeared in various popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "Gunsmoke." He also had minor roles in films such as "Kiss Me Deadly" and "The Young Guns." In addition to acting, Thurston was a skilled painter and his artwork was exhibited in various galleries across the United States. Despite being a prolific actor, Thurston is most recognized for his role as Mr. Brewster in the popular TV series "Leave It to Beaver." Today, he is remembered as a versatile actor who contributed greatly to the Golden Age of Television.
Read more about Ted Thurston on Wikipedia »
Stanley Prager
Stanley Prager (January 8, 1917 New York City-January 18, 1972 Los Angeles) was an American actor, television director, television producer and theatre director. He had four children, Anne Prager, Molly Prager, Carol Prager and Sally Prager.
Prager began his career as an actor in theatre productions and later transitioned into working on television shows. He directed and produced for several popular TV series in the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Twilight Zone," "77 Sunset Strip," and "The Man from U.N.C.L.E."
In addition to his work in television, Prager also directed and produced for the stage, earning a Tony Award nomination for his production of "The Day the Money Stopped" in 1965.
Prager was well-regarded within the entertainment industry, known for his sharp directing skills and creative vision. He passed away in 1972 at the age of 55 due to complications from heart surgery.
Read more about Stanley Prager on Wikipedia »
Elliott Lewis
Elliott Lewis (November 28, 1917 New York City-May 23, 1990) was an American actor.
Lewis worked extensively in radio, film, and television. He was best known for his work in the detective series "Broadway is My Beat," where he played the lead character, Detective Danny Clover. He also appeared in several films and television shows, including "The Phil Silvers Show," "The Rifleman," and "The Untouchables." In addition to acting, Lewis was also a director and producer, working on shows such as "The CBS Radio Mystery Theater" and the television series "The Richard Boone Show." Despite a successful career in entertainment, Elliott Lewis suffered from chronic depression and alcoholism, and he died of lung cancer in 1990.
Read more about Elliott Lewis on Wikipedia »
Marshall Reed
Marshall Reed (May 28, 1917 Englewood-April 15, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as Marshall J. Reed, Marshal Reed, Marsh or Marshall Jewel Reed was an American actor and bookkeeper.
He appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career, primarily in Westerns and science fiction productions. Reed began his career in Hollywood as a stuntman and worked his way up to acting roles. Some of his notable film credits include "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951), "North by Northwest" (1959), and "The Ten Commandments" (1956). On television, he appeared in popular shows such as "Gunsmoke," "Bonanza," and "The Lone Ranger." In addition to his acting work, Reed was also a successful bookkeeper, managing the finances for several prominent Hollywood figures. He passed away in 1980 at the age of 62 due to lung cancer.
Read more about Marshall Reed on Wikipedia »
John Hart
John Hart (December 13, 1917 Los Angeles-September 20, 2009 Rosarito Beach) a.k.a. Johnny Hart or John Hilton was an American actor. He had two children, Buddy Hart and Robyn Hart.
Hart began his career in Hollywood in the 1940s and appeared in over 100 films and TV shows throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his role as Sheriff Hollister in the popular TV series "The Lone Ranger." He also appeared in numerous films, including "Miracle on 34th Street" and "The Last Hurrah."
In addition to his acting career, Hart was also a trained musician and performed with the Bobby Troup Quartet. Later in life, he moved to Mexico and opened a hotel and restaurant in Rosarito Beach.
Throughout his career, Hart was known for his professionalism and kindness on set, and his contributions to the film and television industry earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 91.
Read more about John Hart on Wikipedia »
George N. Neise
George N. Neise (February 16, 1917 Chicago-April 14, 1996 Los Angeles) also known as George Neise or George Niese was an American actor. He had two children, Adrienne Neise and Nikki Neise.
Neise began his acting career in the 1940s, appearing in various film and TV roles throughout the decades that followed. He was best known for his work in westerns, including his roles in "Gunsmoke" and "The Lone Ranger". Neise also played a number of small roles in films such as "The Man from Planet X" and "The Day the Earth Stood Still". Despite primarily being known for his acting work, Neise was also a talented singer and musician. In addition to his acting career, he worked as a producer and director for radio and television programs. Neise passed away in 1996 at the age of 79.
Read more about George N. Neise on Wikipedia »
Desi Arnaz
Desi Arnaz (March 2, 1917 Santiago de Cuba-December 2, 1986 Del Mar) a.k.a. Desiderio Arnaz, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz ye de Acha the Third, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz y de Acha III, Desiderio Alberto Arnaz y de Acha, III or Desi Arnaz, Sr. was an American comedian, singer, musician, television producer, actor, television director and film producer. His children are called Lucie Arnaz, Desi Arnaz, Jr. and Madeline Jane Dee.
Born in Santiago de Cuba, Arnaz moved to the United States with his family when he was a child. He started his entertainment career as a musician and bandleader, and went on to become one of the most successful producers in television history. He co-starred in the classic sitcom "I Love Lucy" with his wife Lucille Ball, and together they formed Desilu Productions, which created hit TV shows such as "The Untouchables" and "Star Trek." Arnaz was also renowned for his talents as a drummer and introduced the conga line to American audiences. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1986, the same year he passed away.
Read more about Desi Arnaz on Wikipedia »
John Alvin
John Alvin (October 24, 1917 Chicago-February 27, 2009 Thousand Oaks) also known as John Alvin Hoffstadt was an American actor. His children are called Tracy Alvin, Kim Ford and Craig Alvin.
John Alvin began his acting career in the 1940s, appearing in films such as "The Long Night" and "The Killers". He also had a recurring role on the TV series "The Brothers". In addition to his work in front of the camera, Alvin was a writer and producer, and worked on productions such as "The New Adventures of Gilligan" and "The Fantastic Seven". He was married to actress and singer Winifred Hervey for over 30 years until his death in 2009 at the age of 91.
Read more about John Alvin on Wikipedia »
Robert Karnes
Robert Karnes (June 19, 1917 Paducah-December 4, 1979 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. Robert A. Karnes, Robert Anthony Karnes or Bob Karnes was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the early 1940s and appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career. Some of his movie credits include "Out of the Past," "The Wild One," and "The Atomic Submarine." His television appearances include popular shows such as "Perry Mason," "Bonanza," and "Gunsmoke." Karnes was also a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Navy.
Read more about Robert Karnes on Wikipedia »
Ed Peck
Ed Peck (March 26, 1917 New York City-September 12, 1992 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Edward Peck or Ed V. Peck was an American actor.
He initially worked in radio in the 1940s before transitioning to work in television and film. Peck appeared in over 80 films and television shows throughout his career, often in supporting roles. He is perhaps best known for his role as Police Chief Bill Gillespie in the film version of In the Heat of the Night (1967), and its subsequent TV series (1988-1995). Peck was also a veteran of World War II, having served as a B-17 bomber pilot in the United States Army Air Forces. He passed away in 1992 at the age of 75.
Read more about Ed Peck on Wikipedia »
Burr Tillstrom
Burr Tillstrom (October 13, 1917 Chicago-December 6, 1985 Palm Springs) also known as Franklin Burr Tillstrom was an American actor and puppeteer.
He was best known for creating and starring in the popular children's television show Kukla, Fran and Ollie which ran from 1947 to 1957. Tillstrom was a pioneer in puppetry for television and his show was one of the earliest and most beloved series aimed at children. He also worked on other television shows and commercials throughout his career, and was known for his creativity and unique approach to puppetry. Tillstrom received numerous awards for his work in puppetry, including four Peabody Awards and an Emmy. He continued to work with puppets up until his death in 1985.
Read more about Burr Tillstrom on Wikipedia »
Ernest Borgnine
Ernest Borgnine (January 24, 1917 Hamden-July 8, 2012 Los Angeles) also known as Ermes Effron Borgnino, Ernest Effron Borgnine, Ermes Effron Borgnine or Bullito was an American actor, voice actor and military officer. He had four children, Sharon Borgnine, Cris Borgnine, Diana Rancourt-Borgnine and Nancee Borgnine.
Ernest Borgnine was born to Italian immigrant parents and grew up in Connecticut. He joined the Navy at 18 and served for ten years, including during World War II. After leaving the Navy, he went to school for acting and eventually landed his first film role in 1951's "The Whistle at Eaton Falls."
Throughout his career, Borgnine appeared in over 200 films and television shows, including classics like "Marty" (for which he won the Best Actor Oscar in 1956), "The Dirty Dozen," and "Escape from New York." He also lent his voice to several animated projects, including "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "The Simpsons."
In addition to his acting career, Borgnine was also involved in several philanthropic and charitable causes. He was a longtime supporter of the United Service Organizations (USO) and was awarded their Merit Award in 1980.
Read more about Ernest Borgnine on Wikipedia »
Carl Ballantine
Carl Ballantine (September 27, 1917 Chicago-November 3, 2009 Hollywood Hills) also known as Meyer Kessler, The Amazing Mr. Ballantine, The Great Ballantine, Ballantine: The World's Greatest Magician, Mr. Ballantine, Ballantine, Carl Ballentine, Mr. Ballantine the World Greatest Magician, Jipper, Count Marakoff, Carl Sharp or Carl "The Amazing" Ballantine was an American magician, actor, comedian and voice actor. He had two children, Sara Ballantine and Molly Caliente Ballantine.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Carl Ballantine began his career as a magician and later branched out to comedy and acting. He gained fame for his comedy-magic routines, often incorporating humorous gags and mistakes into his performances. He appeared on many popular TV shows of the time, including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Twilight Zone."
Ballantine also acted in several films and TV shows, including "McHale's Navy" and "The Love Boat." He had a memorable role in the 1960 film "The Apartment," playing the character of Mr. Dobisch.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Ballantine was also a World War II veteran, having served in the Army Air Corps. He later became involved in veterans' affairs and worked to support their causes.
Ballantine passed away in 2009 at the age of 92 in Hollywood Hills, California, leaving behind a legacy as a talented performer and dedicated advocate.
Read more about Carl Ballantine on Wikipedia »
Leon Janney
Leon Janney (April 1, 1917 Ogden-October 28, 1980 Guadalajara) a.k.a. Leon Ramon, Laon Ramon or Donald Janney was an American actor.
Janney began his acting career in the 1930s as a child actor in numerous stage productions before transitioning to film and TV roles. He appeared in over 70 films, including "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "The Phynx," and was a regular performer on the TV series "The Edge of Night" and "The Big Story." Janney was also an accomplished voice actor, lending his voice to numerous radio programs and animated TV shows, including "The Adventures of Superman" and "Underdog." Later in his career, he moved to Guadalajara, Mexico where he continued to act and direct theater productions until his death in 1980.
Read more about Leon Janney on Wikipedia »
Dennis James
Dennis James (August 24, 1917 Jersey City-June 3, 1997 Palm Springs) also known as Demie James Sposa or James, Dennis was an American actor.
He was perhaps best known as the host of the game show, "The Price is Right," which he hosted from 1972 to 1977. James began his career as a vaudeville performer before transitioning to radio and television in the 1940s. He also acted in several films, including "The Caine Mutiny" and "The Benny Goodman Story." Throughout his career, James remained active in the entertainment industry, appearing on numerous shows and hosting other game shows such as "Name That Tune" and "The All-New Beat the Clock." In addition to his work in entertainment, James was also a respected member of the Palm Springs community, where he made his home later in life.
Read more about Dennis James on Wikipedia »
Robert Gist
Robert Gist (October 1, 1917 Miami-May 21, 1998 Magalia) also known as Robert Marion Gist or Bob Gist was an American film director, actor, television director and teacher. He had one child, Dave Gist.
Born and raised in Miami, Gist began his career in theater before transitioning to television and film. He appeared in productions on Broadway, including "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "The Rose Tattoo," before moving to Hollywood to work in television. He directed over 200 episodes of various television series and worked with stars such as James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, and Marlon Brando.
Gist also directed several films, including the 1965 western "Shenandoah" starring James Stewart and the 1967 drama "The Way West" starring Kirk Douglas. In addition to directing, Gist was a respected acting teacher, and many of his students went on to successful careers in the entertainment industry.
Gist passed away in Magalia, California in 1998 at the age of 80. His legacy continues through the numerous actors and directors he mentored, and through the films and television shows he helped bring to life.
Read more about Robert Gist on Wikipedia »
Kim Chan
Kim Chan (December 28, 1917 Guangdong Province-October 5, 2008 The Bronx) also known as Kim S. Chan was an American actor and film producer.
Kim Chan immigrated to the United States in 1949 and began his acting career in the 1950s appearing in theatre productions, TV shows, and movies. He is known for his roles in films like "The Fifth Element", "Lethal Weapon 4", "The Corruptor", and "Bird on a Wire". In addition to his acting career, he also produced films such as "Americanese" and "Dim Sum: A Little Bit of Heart".
Kim Chan was a prominent figure in the Asian American community and helped pave the way for other actors and filmmakers. He was a co-founder of the Asian American Theatre Company and served as the chairman of the board for the Museum of Chinese in America. He was also involved in various other organizations that aimed to promote Asian American culture and awareness.
Kim Chan passed away in 2008 at the age of 90. He left behind a legacy of work that celebrated diversity and represented the Asian American community in mainstream media.
Read more about Kim Chan on Wikipedia »