American movie stars died in 1961
Here are 43 famous actors from United States of America died in 1961:
Leonard Marx
Leonard Marx (March 22, 1887 New York City-October 11, 1961 Hollywood) also known as Chico Marx, Leonard "Chico" Marx or Chico was an American actor, comedian and bandleader. His child is called Maxine Marx.
Chico Marx was one of the Marx Brothers, a group of siblings who became popular in vaudeville, Broadway and Hollywood during the early 20th century. Chico was known for his charming Italian accent, quick wit, and musical talent, often playing the piano in the Marx Brothers' comedy routines. He also had a successful career as a bandleader, leading his own group, Chico Marx and His Orchestra. Along with his brothers, he starred in several classic films, including "Duck Soup," "A Night at the Opera," and "Animal Crackers." Chico was married twice and had four children. He was known for his love of gambling and often used his winnings to bail his brothers out of financial trouble. Despite his success, Chico struggled with alcoholism and died of heart disease in 1961 at the age of 74.
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Jay Wilsey
Jay Wilsey (February 6, 1896 Hillsdale-October 25, 1961 Los Angeles) also known as Wilbert Jay Wilsey, Buffalo Bill Jr., J. Wilsey, Jay Wilsie or Buffalo Bill Junior was an American actor, stunt performer and film director.
Wilsey was born in Hillsdale, Michigan and began his career in the film industry as a stunt performer in the early 1920s. He quickly became known for his daring stunts and fearless attitude, which earned him a reputation as one of the top performers in the industry. In addition to his work as a stuntman, Wilsey also appeared in dozens of films, often playing tough, western characters.
Wilsey's most famous role was as "Buffalo Bill Jr." in the 1920s and 1930s, a character he played in a long-running series of films. He also appeared in several other popular films of the era, including "The Range Rider" and "The Lone Ranger." In addition to his work in front of the camera, Wilsey also directed several films, most notably "The Fighting Parson" and "The Fighting Sheriff."
Despite his successful career in Hollywood, Wilsey's personal life was often tumultuous. He was married and divorced several times and struggled with alcoholism. In the late 1940s, he retired from the film industry and moved to Hawaii, where he lived until his death in 1961. Despite his ups and downs, Jay Wilsey left a lasting impact on the film industry and remains a beloved figure among fans of early Western cinema.
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Ben Corbett
Ben Corbett (February 6, 1892 Hudson-May 19, 1961 Hollywood) also known as Benny Corbet, Benjamin Corbett, Bennie Corbett, Benny Corbett, Beny Corbett, Smiling Ben Corbett, Ben Corbitt or Smiley was an American actor and stunt performer.
Corbett began his career in the entertainment industry as a Vaudeville performer, known for his physical comedy and acrobatic stunts. He later transitioned to the film industry, becoming a prolific actor and stunt performer, who worked in over 200 films throughout his career.
Some of Corbett's notable film appearances include his roles in "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938), "G-Men vs. the Black Dragon" (1943), "The Ghost of Frankenstein" (1942), and "The Angel and the Badman" (1947). Corbett was also a regular performer and stuntman on the popular television series, "The Lone Ranger", where he played a variety of roles over the course of several years.
Despite suffering from Parkinson's disease in the latter part of his life, Corbett continued to work in films and television until his death in 1961. Corbett's contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which was awarded posthumously in 2002.
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Charles Coburn
Charles Coburn (June 19, 1877 Macon-August 30, 1961 New York City) also known as Charles Douville Coburn was an American actor. He had seven children, Stephanie Coburn, Charlie Coburn, John Coburn, Marg Coburn, Margaret Coburn, Holly Coburn and Samuel Coburn.
Coburn began his career in theater and made his film debut in 1933. He quickly became known for his sophisticated and suave characters in films such as "The Lady Eve," "The More the Merrier," and "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes," earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1943. In addition to his acting career, Coburn was also an inventor, creating a horse-drawn lawn spray that became popular in the 1920s. He was a dedicated art collector, amassing a collection of over 300 paintings, which he donated to museums including the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
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Wally Brown
Wally Brown (October 9, 1904 Malden-November 13, 1961 Los Angeles) also known as Wallace Brown was an American comedian and actor.
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Brown had a successful career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1930s. He appeared in a number of comedy shorts and feature films, often playing the goofy sidekick to more straight-laced leads. Some of his notable films include "On the Avenue," "Topper Returns," and "Close to My Heart." Brown also had success on television, making regular appearances on programs such as "The Abbott and Costello Show" and "The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show." Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Brown struggled with personal issues including alcoholism, and died at the relatively young age of 57.
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Leo Carrillo
Leo Carrillo (August 6, 1881 Los Angeles-September 10, 1961 Santa Monica) also known as Leopoldo Antonio Carrillo or Leo Carillo was an American actor, cartoonist and conservationist. He had one child, Marie Antoinette Carrillo.
Carrillo was the son of a notable California family and his great-great grandfather was a Spanish Governor of California. He attended college in Southern California and then began his acting career on Broadway. Carrillo appeared in over 90 movies, primarily in Westerns, and became famous for his role as "Pancho" in the TV series "The Cisco Kid." He was also a talented cartoonist and illustrator, with his work appearing in newspapers and magazines across the United States.
In addition to his acting and artistic endeavors, Carrillo was a passionate conservationist and worked to preserve the natural beauty of California. He served on the California Beaches and Parks Commission and played a crucial role in the creation of Leo Carrillo State Park, which was named in his honor. Carrillo died at the age of 80 from cancer and is buried in Santa Monica.
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Jeff Chandler
Jeff Chandler (December 15, 1918 Brooklyn-June 17, 1961 Culver City) also known as Ira Grossel or Big Gray was an American actor and singer. He had two children, Jamie Tucker and Dana Grossel.
Chandler was best known for his roles in westerns and war films such as "Broken Arrow" (1950), "Apache" (1954), and "Merrill's Marauders" (1962). He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Broken Arrow". In addition to his acting career, Chandler also released several successful albums as a singer, including "Songs of the Islands" and "There's Nothing Like a Dame". He passed away at the age of 42 due to complications following spinal surgery.
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George Melford
George Melford (February 19, 1877 Rochester-April 25, 1961 Hollywood) otherwise known as George H. Melford, G.W. Melford, Uncle George, The Old Man, Whispering George, George Henry Knauff, George Knauff Melford, Melford or George Melford's Production of was an American screenwriter, film director, actor, film producer and blacksmith.
He was best known for directing early silent films such as "The Sheik" and "Dracula" in the 1920s. Melford made his acting debut in 1914 and directed his first film, "The Squaw Man," in 1918. He went on to direct over 150 films in his career, often working with silent film stars such as Rudolph Valentino and Lionel Barrymore. Melford was respected for his skill in creating atmosphere and tension in his films, and was known for his attention to detail on set. He continued to work in the film industry until the 1950s, and passed away in 1961 at the age of 84.
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Henry O'Neill
Henry O'Neill (August 10, 1891 Orange-May 18, 1961 Hollywood) otherwise known as Henry O'Neil or Pop was an American actor and singer.
O'Neill appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, including classics such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Great Ziegfeld." He often played supporting roles as doctors, lawyers, or businessmen, but occasionally landed leading roles as well. Aside from his work in films, O'Neill was also a talented stage performer, making his debut in the renowned play "Lightnin'" in 1918. He was also a frequent radio performer, hosting his own show and appearing on various programs. Prior to his career in entertainment, O'Neill served in World War I as part of the American Expeditionary Forces.
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George Ferguson
George Ferguson (February 10, 1890 Boston-October 1, 1961 New Jersey) was an American actor. He had two children, Milton Hart Ferguson and Dalton Hart Ferguson.
George Ferguson began his career as a stage actor, eventually moving to Hollywood in the 1930s to pursue film roles. He acted in over 100 films during his career, often portraying authority figures such as police officers and judges. Some of his notable roles include Captain Donovan in "Angels with Dirty Faces" (1938) and Mr. Miller in "Twelve O'Clock High" (1949). In addition to his acting work, Ferguson was an accomplished pilot, and during World War II he served as a civilian instructor for the United States Army Air Corps. He passed away from a heart attack in 1961, at the age of 71.
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Walter Stull
Walter Stull (January 27, 1879 Nebraska-June 10, 1961 Los Angeles) was an American film director and actor.
Stull started working in the film industry in the early 1910s and appeared in over 20 films as an actor before transitioning to directing in the mid-1910s. He directed a variety of genres, including westerns, dramas, and comedies, and was known for his use of location shooting.
Stull worked with popular actors of the time such as Hoot Gibson and Tom Mix, and directed over 100 films during his career, including "The Coming of the Law" (1919) and "The Dangerous Dub" (1923). He also worked as a second unit director on several prominent films, including "Big Jim McLain" (1952) starring John Wayne.
Stull continued to work in the film industry until the 1950s, when he retired after a long and successful career. He passed away in 1961 in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering director in the early days of American cinema.
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Harry Gribbon
Harry Gribbon (June 9, 1885 New York City-July 28, 1961 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Harry Peter Gribbon, Silk Hat Harry or Rubber-faced Harry was an American actor.
He began his career as a vaudeville performer before transitioning to silent films in the 1910s. Gribbon appeared in over 200 films over the course of his career, often playing comedic supporting roles. He was known for his rubbery facial expressions and physical comedy. In the 1920s and 1930s, Gribbon appeared in many popular films, including several Laurel and Hardy comedies. He continued acting into the 1950s, often appearing in small roles on television. Gribbon died in 1961 at the age of 76 in Los Angeles, California.
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George B. French
George B. French (April 14, 1883 Storm Lake-June 9, 1961 Hollywood) also known as George French was an American actor.
French began his acting career in the mid-1910s and appeared in over 250 films over several decades. He was primarily known for his versatile character roles in both silent and sound films, often playing the role of a judge, doctor, or other authoritative figure. Some of his notable films include "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946) and "Double Indemnity" (1944). French was also a member of the Screen Actors Guild and served on its board of directors for 12 years. Outside of his acting career, French was a talented woodworker and enjoyed crafting furniture in his spare time.
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Fred Kelsey
Fred Kelsey (August 20, 1884 Sandusky-September 2, 1961 Hollywood) a.k.a. Frederick Alvin Kelsey, Fred A. Kelsey, H. Kelsley, F. A. Kelsey, Frederick Alvin "Fred" Kelsey, F.A. Kelsey or Fred Kelsy was an American film director, actor and screenwriter. He had one child, Robert Miller Kelsey.
Kelsey began his career in the entertainment industry during the silent film era, appearing in more than 200 films as a character actor. He was often cast as a tough police officer or detective due to his imposing stature and deep voice. In addition to his work as an actor, Kelsey also directed and wrote screenplays for several films.
Kelsey's later years were spent in retirement in Hollywood, where he passed away in 1961 at the age of 77. Despite his many contributions to the film industry, Kelsey is often overlooked in discussions of Hollywood's early years. However, his impact on the development of the crime drama genre is notable, and his legacy as a versatile filmmaker lives on.
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Lee Moran
Lee Moran (June 23, 1888 Chicago-April 24, 1961 Woodland Hills) was an American screenwriter, film director, actor and writer. His child is called Mary Jane Moran.
Lee Moran began his career in the entertainment industry in vaudeville, where he developed his skills in comedy and acting. He went on to appear in over 300 films during the silent era, often playing comedic roles as the comic relief. As his career progressed, he began writing and directing films, including several shorts for the popular "Our Gang" series. Moran also wrote for television shows and continued to act in films as a character actor well into the 1950s. In addition to his work in entertainment, Moran was also a published author and playwright, with several works produced on Broadway. He was married to actress Moroni Olsen, with whom he had one daughter, Mary Jane Moran. Moran passed away in 1961 in Woodland Hills, California at the age of 72.
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Fred Sanborn
Fred Sanborn (November 23, 1899 Haverhill-March 9, 1961 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Freddie Sanborn was an American actor.
Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts in 1899, Fred "Freddie" Sanborn started his career in the entertainment industry during the silent film era. He appeared in multiple films, often cast in supporting roles alongside stars like Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, Sanborn transitioned to talkies and continued to work steadily in Hollywood throughout the 1940s and 1950s. He appeared in more than 200 films over the course of his career. In addition to his work on screen, Sanborn was also a skilled musician, playing the saxophone, piano, and clarinet. He passed away in Los Angeles in 1961 at the age of 61.
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Alan Marshal
Alan Marshal (January 29, 1909 Sydney-July 13, 1961 Chicago) otherwise known as Alan Marshall or Alan Willey was an American actor. His child is called Kit Marshal.
Alan Marshal's career spanned from the 1930s to the early 1950s, and he appeared in over 50 films. He is best known for his role in the film "Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1939) and "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938). Marshal was also a stage actor, performing on Broadway in several productions throughout his career. In addition to his work in film and theater, he was an accomplished radio actor and appeared in many popular radio shows of the time. Marshal was married three times throughout his life, and his son Kit Marshal followed in his father's footsteps and became an actor as well. Tragically, Alan Marshal died at the age of 52 from a heart attack while on set filming the television series "Route 66" in Chicago.
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Cliff Nazarro
Cliff Nazarro (January 31, 1904 New Haven-February 18, 1961 Ventura County) was an American actor and comedian.
Nazarro was best known for his roles in several films during the 1930s and 1940s, often appearing in westerns and musical comedies. He began his career in show business as a vaudeville performer before transitioning to film. Some of his notable films include "Roberta" (1935), "Banjo on My Knee" (1936), and "Road to Singapore" (1940). In addition to acting, Nazarro was also a talented musician, playing the saxophone and clarinet. He made several recordings and even appeared on radio programs as a bandleader. Nazarro's career declined in the 1950s, and he eventually retired from acting in 1954. He passed away in 1961 at the age of 57.
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Tiny Sandford
Tiny Sandford (February 26, 1894 Osage-October 29, 1961 Los Angeles) also known as Stanley J. Sandford, Tiny Sanford, Stanley J. Sanford, S.J. Sandford, Stanley Sandford, Tiny Stanford, Stanley J. "Tiny" Sandford, Stanley Sanford or Stanley Standford was an American actor. His children are called Robert Sandford and Louise Sandford.
He appeared in over 180 movies, mostly in supporting roles, during his career which began in the silent film era and continued into the 1950s. Sandford was known for his tall and stocky frame, making him a popular choice for comedic roles in films. He often played tough guys or henchmen in big-budget films. Sandford appeared in several Laurel and Hardy films including "Sons of the Desert" and "Way Out West". He also worked with other famous actors of the time such as Harold Lloyd, Charlie Chaplin, and W.C. Fields. In addition to his work in films, Sandford also appeared in vaudeville and on Broadway. His last film appearance was in the 1956 film "Good-bye, My Lady".
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Gary Cooper
Gary Cooper (May 7, 1901 Helena-May 13, 1961 Beverly Hills) otherwise known as Frank James Cooper, Frank J. Cooper, Studs, The Montana Mule, Coop or Cowboy Cooper was an American actor. He had one child, Maria Cooper.
Cooper began his career as a film extra and made his first credited appearance in the film "The Winning of Barbara Worth" in 1926. He then gained recognition for his roles in films such as "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town", "Sergeant York", and "High Noon", which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Cooper was known for his naturalistic acting style and his portrayals of strong, silent heroes. He was also a skilled horseman and often performed his own stunts on horseback.
In addition to his successful film career, Cooper was known for his support of the Republican Party and his close friendship with former President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Cooper's health began to decline in the 1950s and he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1960. He died the following year at the age of 60.
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Franklyn Farnum
Franklyn Farnum (June 5, 1878 Boston-July 4, 1961 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. William Smith or Franklin Farnum was an American actor. He had one child, Martha Lillian Smith.
Franklyn Farnum appeared in over 1,100 films during his career, making him one of the most prolific actors in Hollywood history. He began his career in silent films in the early 1910s, and continued to appear in films through the early 1950s. Farnum is perhaps best remembered for his work in westerns, particularly in the films of director John Ford. He also appeared in several films with Charlie Chaplin, including "The Kid" (1921) and "Modern Times" (1936). In addition to his film work, Farnum also made numerous television appearances in the 1950s.
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George Irving
George Irving (October 5, 1874 New York City-September 11, 1961 Hollywood) also known as George Henry Irving or George H. Irving was an American actor and film director. He had two children, Katharine Irving and Dorothy Irving.
Irving began his career on stage in New York City in the late 1890s before transitioning to film in the 1910s. He appeared in over 80 films throughout his career, often playing character roles in dramas, comedies, and westerns. Some of his notable film roles include "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" (1921), "The Scarlet Letter" (1934), and "The Ghost Goes West" (1935).
In addition to his work as an actor, Irving also directed several silent films in the early 1920s. He was a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and served on its Board of Governors from 1927 to 1932.
Later in life, Irving continued to act in films and on television. He passed away in 1961 at the age of 86 in Hollywood, California.
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John Eldredge
John Eldredge (August 30, 1904 San Francisco-September 23, 1961 Laguna Beach) a.k.a. John Eldridge, John Eldrege, John Elredge or John Dornin Eldredge was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the late 1920s and appeared in over 200 films throughout his career. Eldredge often played suave and sophisticated leading men in films such as "The Lady Eve" and "Daisy Kenyon". He is also remembered for his portrayal of District Attorney Thomas Mara in the film noir classic "Impact". In addition to his film work, Eldredge also appeared on stage and television. He was a regular on the TV series "Richard Diamond, Private Detective" in the 1950s. Eldredge passed away in 1961 at the age of 57.
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Ferris Taylor
Ferris Taylor (March 25, 1888 Henrietta-March 7, 1961 Hollywood) a.k.a. Robert Ferris Taylor was an American actor.
He began his acting career in the silent film era, appearing in films such as "Paddy the Next Best Thing" (1923) and "The Foolish Virgin" (1924). Taylor transitioned into talking pictures and appeared in supporting roles in films such as "The Philadelphia Story" (1940) and "The Thin Man Goes Home" (1945). He was also a prolific character actor in television, including roles on "The Lone Ranger" and "Adventures of Superman."Taylor was often typecast as a lawyer or a judge and brought gravitas to his performances. He retired from acting in the late 1950s and passed away in 1961.
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Lewis Russell
Lewis Russell (September 10, 1889 Farmington-November 12, 1961 Reseda) also known as George Lewis Lord or Lewis L. Russell was an American actor.
He appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, primarily in supporting or bit roles. Some of his notable film appearances include "The Thin Man Goes Home," "The Postman Always Rings Twice," and "The Asphalt Jungle." Russell also had a successful career in radio, where he worked as a scriptwriter and actor on programs such as "Lux Radio Theatre" and "The Shadow." Outside of his acting career, he was a member of the Hollywood Democratic Committee and served as the chairman of the Short Subjects Branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
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Harry Bannister
Harry Bannister (September 29, 1889 Holland-February 26, 1961 Manhattan) was an American actor. He had one child, Jane Bannister.
Bannister began his acting career on Broadway, appearing in numerous plays throughout the 1910s and 1920s. He made his film debut in 1928, and went on to appear in over 60 films throughout his career, including "The Little Colonel" (1935), "Carrie" (1952) and "The Cobweb" (1955). He was often cast in supporting roles and known for his distinctive voice. In addition to his work in film and theater, Bannister also appeared on radio and television. He passed away in Manhattan in 1961 at the age of 71.
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Donald Cook
Donald Cook (September 26, 1901 Portland-October 1, 1961 New Haven) also known as Donn Cook was an American actor.
He appeared in over 100 films between 1926 and 1961, often playing supporting roles. However, he also had some leading roles in films such as "Baby Face" and "Ann Vickers". Additionally, he had a successful career on Broadway, appearing in productions such as "Of Thee I Sing" and "Oklahoma!". Cook also served in World War II as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Air Forces. He tragically died in a car accident at the age of 60, just days after appearing on an episode of "The Twilight Zone".
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Fay Roope
Fay Roope (October 20, 1893 Allston-September 13, 1961 Port Jefferson) also known as Fay Roupe or Winfield Harding Roope was an American actor. His children are called Martha Roope and George Roope.
Fay Roope began his career in show business as a vaudeville performer before moving on to film and television acting. He appeared in over 125 films throughout his career, including memorable roles in "The Caine Mutiny" and "Annie Get Your Gun". In addition to his work in front of the camera, Roope was also a prolific stage actor, appearing on Broadway in productions like "The Great Ziegfeld" and "Wild is the Wind". He was married to actress Carol Goodner from 1926 until her death in 1951. Roope passed away in 1961 at the age of 67, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most versatile and accomplished character actors of his generation.
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Dick Elliott
Dick Elliott (April 30, 1886 Boston-December 22, 1961 Los Angeles) also known as Richard E. Elliott, Richard Elliott, Richard Damon Elliott, Richard "Dick" Elliott or Dick Elliot was an American actor.
He began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Elliott appeared in over 240 films and television shows during his career, often playing character roles such as old codgers, shopkeepers, and judges. He is perhaps best known for his role as Ollie on the television series Petticoat Junction. Elliott was also a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild and remained a member for over 30 years. He passed away at the age of 75 due to heart disease.
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Paul Guilfoyle
Paul Guilfoyle (July 14, 1902 Jersey City-June 27, 1961 Hollywood) was an American television director, actor and film director. He had two children, Anthony Guilfoyle and Paul Guilfoyle.
Guilfoyle began his career in the film industry as an actor in the 1920s, appearing in silent films such as "The Perfect Alibi" (1928) and "The Racketeer" (1929). He transitioned to directing in the 1940s, helming episodes for various television shows including "The Adventures of Superman" and "Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok."
However, Guilfoyle is perhaps best known for his work as a director on the CBS crime drama series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" from 2000 to 2014. During his tenure on the show, he directed over 50 episodes and was nominated for multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series.
Guilfoyle passed away in 1961 at the age of 58. His legacy in the entertainment industry as both an actor and director lives on, with his contribution to popular TV shows still remembered and celebrated by fans of the genre.
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Edward F. Cline
Edward F. Cline (November 4, 1891 Kenosha-May 22, 1961 Hollywood) also known as Edward Cline, Edward Francis Cline, Edgar Cline, Eddie Cline or Edward 'Eddie' Cline was an American screenwriter, actor, film director, writer and television director.
Cline began his career in Hollywood as a Keystone Cop and worked with various silent film comedians such as Buster Keaton and W.C. Fields. He later transitioned into directing and co-directed many of the Three Stooges short films. Cline also worked in television, directing episodes of popular shows such as The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show and The Abbott and Costello Show. He was known for his quick wit and comedic timing, which was evident in many of the films he wrote and directed. Cline was a prolific filmmaker, having worked on over 200 films in his career. He passed away in 1961 at the age of 69.
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Billy Gilbert
Billy Gilbert (September 15, 1891 Hollywood-April 29, 1961 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Little Billy Gilbert, William Gilbert or William V. Campbell was an American actor and film director.
He appeared in over 200 films in his career, including several classics such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), His Girl Friday (1940), and The Great Dictator (1940). Gilbert was known for his distinctive voice and comedic timing, often playing characters who were bumbling and foolish. He also worked as a voice actor for animated films, providing the voice of Sneezy in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In addition to acting, Gilbert also directed several short films in the 1920s and 1930s. Gilbert passed away in 1961 at the age of 69.
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Charles Gemora
Charles Gemora (June 15, 1903 Negros-August 19, 1961 Hollywood) also known as Carlos Gemora, the King of the Gorilla Men, Carlos Cruz Gemora, Sir Charles, Charles Gamore, Charles Gomura, Charles Gemorra or Charlie was an American makeup artist and actor. He had one child, Diana Gemora.
Gemora was born in Negros, Philippines and was of Filipino and Spanish descent. He immigrated to the United States when he was a teenager and began his career in Hollywood as a makeup artist in the 1920s. He quickly became known for his work creating realistic ape and gorilla suits, and his talent for performing in them. Gemora's career spanned over three decades during which he appeared in many films and television shows, often playing the roles of gorillas, apes, or monkeys. Some of his notable performances can be seen in films such as "King Kong" (1933), "Mighty Joe Young" (1949), and "Robot Monster" (1953). He even had uncredited ape roles in several Tarzan films. In addition to his work in film, Gemora also worked as a performer at fairs and amusement parks, entertaining audiences with his ape and gorilla acts. Despite his success, Gemora struggled with alcoholism and died at the age of 58 in Hollywood.
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Frank Fay
Frank Fay (November 17, 1891 San Francisco-September 25, 1961 Santa Monica) also known as Francis Anthony Donner was an American comedian and actor. His child is called Dion Anthony Fay.
Frank Fay began his career in vaudeville and later transitioned to the radio, becoming one of the first radio stars in the 1920s. He was known for his quick wit and sharp-tongued humor, and was often compared to fellow comedian W.C. Fields. Fay also appeared in several films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "Nothing Sacred" and "The Women." Despite his success, Fay was notoriously difficult to work with and had a reputation for being abrasive and confrontational with cast and crew members. He retired from show business in the 1950s and lived out the rest of his life in relative obscurity. Fay's legacy has been somewhat overshadowed by his unpleasant reputation, but he remains an important figure in the history of American comedy.
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Billy House
Billy House (May 7, 1889 Mankato-September 23, 1961 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as William House or William H. House was an American actor, entertainer and performer. His child is called Billy House Jr..
Billy House rose to fame for his work in radio and on Broadway, where he appeared in productions such as "The Emperor Jones" and "Room Service". He went on to have a successful career in Hollywood, with over 80 film credits to his name. Some of his notable roles include "Brother Orchid", "Meet John Doe" and "The Sea Wolf". He was known for his comedic timing and ability to bring memorable characters to life on screen. In addition to his acting career, House was also an accomplished musician and singer. He passed away in 1961 at the age of 72.
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Earle Ross
Earle Ross (March 29, 1888 Chicago-May 21, 1961 North Hollywood) also known as Earl Ross was an American actor.
Earle Ross appeared in over 160 films, mostly during the silent film era, and he is best remembered for his work in the Western genre, frequently portraying sidekicks or henchmen. He made his film debut in 1915 in the film "The Warning," and went on to work with notable directors such as John Ford and Rouben Mamoulian. Ross also appeared in several Broadway productions, including "The Hotel Mouse" in 1921. He retired from acting in the mid-1950s and passed away in 1961 at the age of 73.
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Donald Gallaher
Donald Gallaher (June 25, 1895 Quincy-August 14, 1961 Los Angeles) a.k.a. D. Gallagher, Don Gallagher, Don Gallaher, Donald Gallagher or Donald Galaher was an American actor and film director.
He began his acting career in silent films in 1915, and in the 1920s he transitioned to directing. He directed several silent films, including "Bustin' Through" and "The Fighting Coward." Gallaher also appeared in a variety of films as an actor, such as "The Mummy" (1932) and "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938). In addition to his work in film, he also worked in radio and television, appearing on shows such as "The Lone Ranger" and "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok." In his later years, he taught acting and worked as a drama coach.
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Al Jennings
Al Jennings (November 25, 1863 Virginia-December 26, 1961 Tarzana) also known as Al J. Jennings, Alphonso J. "Al" Jennings or Alphonso J. Jennings was an American lawyer and actor.
After earning a law degree, Al Jennings moved to Oklahoma where he became involved in the political scene, serving as a prosecutor and running for office. However, his wild side emerged and he became a train robber with his two brothers, Frank and Ed. In 1897, the three were caught and served time in prison. After his release, Jennings attempted to go straight and moved to Los Angeles where he became a successful silent film actor, often playing himself in films about his criminal past. He also wrote and published his memoirs, which were popular at the time. Jennings continued to act in films until the late 1920s and later worked as a radio host and guest speaker. Despite his criminal past, Jennings remained a popular public figure until his death in 1961.
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Arno Frey
Arno Frey (October 11, 1900 Munich-June 26, 1961 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
Frey was born in Munich, Germany and immigrated to the United States in 1923. He began his acting career on stage and made his Hollywood debut in the 1937 film "They Gave Him a Gun". Frey appeared in over 80 film and television productions throughout his career, often playing supporting roles in popular films such as "The Hitler Gang" and "The Great Dictator". He also had recurring roles on television shows such as "Hopalong Cassidy" and "The Lone Ranger". In addition to acting, Frey was a talented artist and had several solo exhibitions of his paintings. He passed away in Los Angeles in 1961 at the age of 60.
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Eddie Polo
Eddie Polo (February 1, 1875 Vienna-June 14, 1961 Hollywood) a.k.a. Edward W. Wyman, Edward W. Weimer, Eddie Weimer or Hercules of the Screen was an American actor and film director. He had one child, Malvina Polo.
Eddie Polo began his career in the entertainment industry in the early 1900s as a performer in vaudeville shows. He quickly made a name for himself as a stuntman and acrobat, and his abilities eventually caught the attention of Hollywood filmmakers.
In 1913, Polo made his film debut in the short film "The Day of Reckoning." He went on to star in over 100 silent films, often performing his own stunts. Some of his most notable films include "The King of the Circus" (1920), "The Hurricane Express" (1932), and "The Perils of Pauline" (1947).
Polo also directed several films throughout his career, including "The Stream of Life" (1920) and "The Woman God Changed" (1931). He continued to work in the film industry well into his 70s, and was known for his dedication and professionalism on set.
Later in life, Polo became a mentor to a young Marlon Brando, who he met in New York City in the 1940s. He passed away in 1961 at the age of 86.
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Antanas Škėma
Antanas Škėma (November 29, 1910 Łódź-August 11, 1961 Pennsylvania) also known as Antanas Skema was an American writer, playwright and actor. He had one child, Kristina Škėmaitė-Snyder.
Antanas Škėma was born in Łódź, Poland, but spent most of his childhood in Lithuania. He studied at the University of Lithuania in Kaunas, where he was involved in the Lithuanian cultural and literary scene. In 1944, Škėma fled Lithuania with his family to escape the Soviet occupation and settled in Germany, where he worked for the Office of War Information. In 1949, he immigrated to the United States, where he continued his writing career and acted in Lithuanian theater productions. Škėma's most famous work is his novel "White Shroud", which is considered a masterpiece of Lithuanian modernist literature. He died in a car accident in Pennsylvania in 1961, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important Lithuanian writers of the 20th century.
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George S. Kaufman
George S. Kaufman (November 16, 1889 Pittsburgh-June 2, 1961 New York City) a.k.a. George Simon Kaufman or George Kaufman was an American writer, playwright, humorist, theatre director, critic, screenwriter, lyricist, theatrical producer and actor. His child is called Anne Kaufman Schneider.
Kaufman got his start in the theater as a writer for the musical revues of the 1910s and went on to pen some of the most memorable plays of the 1920s and '30s, including "The Royal Family," "Animal Crackers," and "Dinner at Eight." He also collaborated on the classic musicals "Of Thee I Sing" and "Guys and Dolls." Kaufman was known for his wit and comedic timing, as well as his ability to work with other writers and performers. He won two Pulitzer Prizes for his work, one for "Of Thee I Sing" and one for "You Can't Take It With You," which he co-wrote with Moss Hart. In addition to his work in the theater, Kaufman also wrote for Hollywood and was a regular contributor to The New Yorker magazine. He is considered one of America's greatest comic writers and is remembered as a major force in the development of American theater.
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Harry Pilcer
Harry Pilcer (April 29, 1885 New York City-January 14, 1961 Cannes) was an American actor, dancer, choreography and lyricist.
He was known as one of the leading dancers of the early 20th-century Broadway stage, having performed in a number of famous musicals such as "Ziegfeld Follies" and "The Passing Show." Pilcer's talent was not limited to dance, however, as he also wrote lyrics for many popular songs of the era.
In addition to his work in the United States, Pilcer also had success in Europe. He traveled to Paris during the 1920s and became a star in the Folies Bergère. He appeared in several French films and also directed and choreographed productions for the stage.
Pilcer's later years were spent in Cannes, where he continued to work as a choreographer and teacher. He died there in 1961 at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest dancers and creative forces of his time.
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