American movie stars died in 1976
Here are 46 famous actors from United States of America died in 1976:
Victor Varconi
Victor Varconi (March 31, 1891 Kisvárda-June 6, 1976 Santa Barbara) also known as Michal Victor Varconyi, Mihály Várkonyi, Várkonyi Mihály, Michael Varkonyi, Michael Varconyi, Víctor Varconi, Michael Varconi, Viktor Varkonyi or Victor Varkonyi was an American actor.
He was born in Hungary and began his career in the Hungarian theater before moving to the United States in 1922. Varconi quickly found success in Hollywood, landing roles in several major films of the time, including The Eagle (1925) and The Mating Call (1928).
In addition to his work in Hollywood, Varconi was also active in European cinema and theater, and he worked with famed director Jean Renoir on the film La Marseillaise (1938). He continued to act in films and TV shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including a recurring role in the hit TV series The Untouchables.
Outside of his acting career, Varconi was a skilled pilot, and he held several aviation records during his lifetime. He also worked as a photographer and painter, and his artwork was displayed in several exhibitions.
Varconi passed away in Santa Barbara, California in 1976 at the age of 85. He is remembered for his contributions to both American and European cinema, as well as his impressive achievements in aviation and the arts.
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Santos Ortega
Santos Ortega (June 30, 1899 New York City-April 10, 1976 Fort Lauderdale) was an American actor.
Ortega had a long and illustrious career in both radio and television. He began his acting career in the 1930s and quickly made a name for himself as a versatile character actor in Hollywood. Ortega appeared in over 30 films throughout his career. Some of his most notable film appearances include "The Mark of Zorro" (1940), "The Sullivans" (1944), and "The Molly Maguires" (1970).
In addition to his film work, Ortega was also well-known for his work in radio, where he became one of the most recognizable voices in the industry. He appeared in numerous radio dramas, including "The Shadow," "Inner Sanctum Mysteries," and "The Lone Ranger."
Ortega continued to work in radio throughout the 1950s, but also began to shift his focus to television. He appeared in a number of popular television shows, including "Gunsmoke," "The Twilight Zone," and "Bonanza." However, he is perhaps best known for his role as Mr. Purdy in the hit television series "All in the Family."
Despite his success in Hollywood, Ortega remained humble and never forgot his roots. He was a lifelong supporter of The Actor's Fund, an organization that helps actors in need. He passed away in 1976 at the age of 76.
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Duke Moore
Duke Moore (July 15, 1913-November 16, 1976 Hollywood) also known as James 'Duke' Moore, 'Duke' Moore or James Moore was an American actor.
He appeared in over 50 films and television shows throughout his career, mainly in small roles or supporting characters. Moore was often cast in Westerns and sci-fi films, including roles in the cult classics "Plan 9 from Outer Space" and "Bride of the Monster," both directed by Ed Wood. He also had recurring roles in popular TV shows of the era such as "Perry Mason" and "The Beverly Hillbillies." In addition to acting, Moore was an accomplished writer and director, with several of his own films to his credit. He was married to actress Jeanne Bates and the couple had two children together.
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Oscar Beregi, Jr.
Oscar Beregi, Jr. (May 12, 1918 Budapest-November 1, 1976 Los Angeles) also known as Oscar Beregei, Oscar Beregi or Oscar Bergi was an American actor.
Beregi was best known for his roles in TV shows such as "Batman", "The Adventures of Superman", and "Mission: Impossible". He also had notable film appearances in "Judgment at Nuremberg" and "The Carpetbaggers". Beregi was born in Hungary and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was a child. Before becoming an actor, he worked for his father's construction company. Beregi served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat. He continued to act until his death in 1976 at the age of 58.
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Philip Ford
Philip Ford (October 16, 1900 Portland-January 12, 1976 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Phillip Ford, Philip Feeney or Phil Ford was an American film director, actor and television director.
Ford began his career in Hollywood in the 1920s as an actor and stuntman, appearing in silent films such as The Iron Horse (1924) and The Phantom of the Opera (1925). He later transitioned into directing, mainly working in B-movies and westerns. Ford directed over 80 films during his career, including the 1952 film The Quiet Gun and 1955's Apache Ambush. He also worked in television, directing episodes of popular shows such as Perry Mason and The Lone Ranger. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Ford was an avid amateur painter and sculptor. He passed away in 1976 at the age of 75.
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David Bruce
David Bruce (January 6, 1914 Kankakee-May 3, 1976 Hollywood) also known as Marden McBroom, Marden Andrew McBroom or Andy McBroom was an American actor. He had two children, Amanda McBroom and John Jolliffe.
David Bruce began his acting career in the late 1930s and appeared in over 70 films and television shows throughout his career. He is perhaps best known for his roles in the films, "The Mad Ghoul" (1943), "The Fighting Seabees" (1944), and "The Mummy's Ghost" (1944). Bruce also had a successful career on Broadway, appearing in several productions including "Kiss and Tell" and "Second Threshold." In addition to his work on stage and screen, Bruce was also a talented vocalist and recorded several records. He passed away in 1976 at the age of 62.
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Lee Payant
Lee Payant (November 27, 2014 Seattle-December 14, 1976 Paris) was an American actor and film director.
Payant began his career as a stage actor in the Pacific Northwest, performing in various productions in Seattle and Portland. He then moved to Hollywood in the early 1940s and began working in film as a bit player and stuntman.
In 1953, Payant made his directorial debut with the crime drama film "The Steel Cage". He went on to direct several other films, including "The Impostor" (1956) and "The Living Idol" (1957).
In addition to his work in film, Payant also appeared in a number of television shows in the 1950s and 60s, including "Gunsmoke," "Perry Mason," and "The Twilight Zone."
Payant's career was tragically cut short when he died of a heart attack in Paris in 1976 at the age of 62. Despite his relatively short career, he left a lasting impact on the film industry and is remembered as a versatile actor and talented director.
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Godfrey Cambridge
Godfrey Cambridge (February 26, 1933 New York City-November 29, 1976 Burbank) otherwise known as Godfrey MacArthur Cambridge or Godfrey M. Cambridge was an American comedian and actor. He had two children, Stephanie Cambridge and Gillian Cambridge.
Cambridge started his career as a stand-up comedian in the 1960s and eventually became one of the first black comedians to gain widespread popularity with both black and white audiences. He appeared on numerous TV shows, including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Jackie Gleason Show," and in films such as "Watermelon Man" and "Cotton Comes to Harlem."
In addition to his work in entertainment, Cambridge was also a civil rights activist and participated in the 1963 March on Washington. He was known for his sharp wit and biting social commentary, often addressing issues of race and inequality in his comedy.
Cambridge died at the young age of 43 due to a heart attack. Despite his relatively short career, he left a lasting impact on the world of comedy and entertainment, inspiring many young comedians and actors who followed in his footsteps.
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Paul Robeson
Paul Robeson (April 9, 1898 Princeton-January 23, 1976 Philadelphia) also known as Paul LeRoy Bustill Robeson, Robeson, Paul, Robey or Paul Leroy Robeson was an American lawyer, singer, actor, athlete and social activist. He had one child, Paul Robeson, Jr..
Robeson was an exemplary talent who excelled in every field he explored. He was the son of a formerly enslaved preacher from whom he inherited his strong compassion for the oppressed. He was a graduate of Rutgers University and Columbia University and became a lawyer before pursuing his passion for the arts. Robeson became recognized internationally for his powerful bass-baritone singing voice, putting out albums that ranged from gospel to opera. He also performed in plays and films, including his iconic performance in Othello which garnered him critical acclaim.
Despite his great commercial success, Robeson was always politically active and used his platform to advocate for social justice. He was a vocal supporter of the labor movement and the struggles of workers worldwide, standing in solidarity with the Spanish Civil War and becoming a peace activist during the Cold War. He was a champion for Civil Rights and was an outspoken critic of segregation and racism in the United States, which resulted in the revocation of his passport in 1950.
Despite facing many adversities, Robeson remained steadfast in his principles throughout his life, and his legacy still inspires people today.
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William Redfield
William Redfield (January 26, 1927 New York City-August 17, 1976 New York City) also known as Billy Redfield was an American actor and author. He had one child, Adam Redfield.
Redfield attended the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. He made his Broadway debut in 1946 in the play "Dream Girl" and went on to act in several other plays and films throughout his career. Some of his notable film credits include "A Face in the Crowd" and "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest." In addition to his work as an actor, Redfield wrote several books including "Letters from an Actor," a collection of letters he wrote to his family while he was working on various film and theater projects. Redfield died at the age of 49 from leukemia.
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Sal Mineo
Sal Mineo (January 10, 1939 The Bronx-February 12, 1976 West Hollywood) also known as Salvatore Mineo, Jr., Jr, The Switchblade Kid, Salvatore Mineo, Jr. or Salvatore "Sal" Mineo, Jr. was an American actor.
He began his acting career as a child actor and rose to fame in the mid-1950s with his roles in the films "Rebel Without a Cause" and "Giant". Mineo was one of the biggest teen idols of his time and was also known for his striking good looks. He received critical acclaim for his performances in "Exodus" and "The Longest Day". In addition to his acting career, Mineo was also a talented singer and released several singles and albums. Despite his success, Mineo faced personal struggles with his sexuality and was one of the few actors of his time to be openly gay. His life was tragically cut short when he was stabbed to death at the age of 37.
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Maxie Rosenbloom
Maxie Rosenbloom (November 1, 1907 Connecticut-March 6, 1976 South Pasadena) also known as Max Everitt Rosenbloom, Maxie Rosenthal, Slapsy Maxie Rosenbloom, 'Slapsie Maxie' Rosenbloom, Slapsie Maxie Rosenbloom, 'Slapsie' Maxie Rosenbloom, 'Slapsy Maxie' Rosenbloom, 'Slapsie' Maxie Rosembloom, Maxie Rosenblum, Slapsie Maxie or Max 'Slapsie Maxie' Rosenbloom was an American actor, professional boxer and tv personality.
He was born into a Jewish family and started his career as a professional boxer in the 1920s. Rosenbloom won the light heavyweight championship in 1932, and held it for 4 years until he retired from the sport in 1936. He then transitioned to acting, appearing in over 20 films, including the Marx Brothers' film "A Night at the Opera" and "On the Waterfront".
Rosenbloom was also a frequent guest on television shows such as "The Jack Benny Show" and "The Ed Sullivan Show". He was known for his unique speaking style and comedic timing, which made him a popular guest on talk shows and variety programs.
Later in life, Rosenbloom suffered from Alzheimer's disease and passed away in 1976 at the age of 68. Despite his success in both boxing and acting, he was often remembered for his nickname "Slapsie Maxie", which he earned because of his tendency to slap his opponents in the ring.
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Lee J. Cobb
Lee J. Cobb (December 8, 1911 The Bronx-February 11, 1976 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Leo Jacoby, Lee Jacoby, Lee Colt, Cpl. Lee Cobb, Lee Cobb, Leo Jacob or Leo Joachim Jacoby IV was an American actor. His child is called Julie Cobb.
Cobb had a notable career both on stage and in film, earning a Tony Award for his role in the Broadway production of "Death of a Salesman" and receiving Academy Award nominations for his performances in "On the Waterfront" and "The Brothers Karamazov." He also appeared in numerous television shows, including a recurring role in the popular 1960s series "The Virginian." Cobb's acting style was known for its intensity and depth, and he is often remembered as one of the great actors of his time. In addition to his acting work, he was also involved in civil rights activism and was a founding member of the Hollywood chapter of the Committee for the First Amendment.
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Jack Cassidy
Jack Cassidy (March 5, 1927 Richmond Hill-December 12, 1976 West Hollywood) also known as John Joseph Edward Cassidy, John Joseph Edward “Jack” Cassidy or John Edward Joseph Cassidy was an American actor. He had four children, David Cassidy, Patrick Cassidy, Shaun Cassidy and Ryan Cassidy.
Jack Cassidy was known for his work on Broadway, starring in musicals such as "Wish You Were Here," "She Loves Me," and "It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Superman." He also appeared on television shows like "The Partridge Family," "Bonanza," and "Cannon." Cassidy won a Tony Award in 1964 for his role in the musical "She Loves Me." He had a prolific career in entertainment, but tragically died in a fire in his apartment at the age of 49.
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Norman Foster
Norman Foster (December 13, 1903 Richmond-July 7, 1976 Santa Monica) otherwise known as Norman Hoeffer, Norman Foster Hoeffer or John Hoeffer was an American film director, actor, television director, screenwriter, journalist and playwright. His children are called Robert Foster and Gretchen Foster.
Foster began his career in the film industry in the 1920s as an actor before transitioning to directing in the 1930s. He directed over 80 films throughout his career, including notable titles such as "Woman on the Run" (1950), "Kiss the Blood Off My Hands" (1948), and "Damnation Alley" (1977). Foster also made a significant impact on the television industry, directing episodes of popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Outer Limits," and "Star Trek."
In addition to his work in film and television, Foster was also a successful journalist and playwright. He wrote for publications such as the New York Daily News and the Los Angeles Herald-Examiner and authored several plays, including "The First Stone" and "The Tunnel of Love."
Foster received numerous accolades for his work throughout his career, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Director for the film "The Rainmaker" (1956). He passed away in 1976 at the age of 72.
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Eddie Dowling
Eddie Dowling (December 11, 1889 Woonsocket-February 18, 1976 Smithfield) also known as Edward Dowling, Joseph Nelson Goucher, Joseph Goucher or Joseph Narcisse Goucher was an American actor, playwright, film producer, screenwriter and writer. He had two children, Jack Dowling and Maxine Dowling.
Dowling began his entertainment career as a vaudeville performer in the early 1900s. He made his Broadway debut in 1912 as a member of the chorus in the musical "The Only Girl." Dowling went on to become a successful playwright and producer, with hits such as "The Shame Woman" and "My Best Girl."
In addition to his theatrical work, Dowling also appeared in over 30 films between 1917 and 1950. He often played character roles, and his most notable film credit is likely his portrayal of Doc Boone in John Ford's classic western "Stagecoach" (1939).
Dowling was also a prolific writer, publishing several novels during his career. He was a co-founder of the American National Theatre and Academy and served as its president from 1949 to 1952.
Dowling lived to the age of 86 and is buried in St. Charles Cemetery in Blackstone, Massachusetts.
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Paul Ford
Paul Ford (November 2, 1901 Baltimore-April 12, 1976 Mineola) also known as Paul Ford Weaver was an American actor.
Ford gained popularity for his role as Colonel John T. Hall in the TV series "The Phil Silvers Show" in the 1950s. He also appeared in many other popular TV shows such as "The Jeffersons" and "All in the Family".
Aside from his TV work, Ford also had an extensive career in theater, which included a Tony Award for his role in the original Broadway production of "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum".
Despite a successful acting career, Ford was known for being reclusive and private, rarely giving interviews or appearing in public. He passed away at the age of 74 in Mineola, New York.
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Ray Teal
Ray Teal (January 12, 1902 Grand Rapids-April 2, 1976 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Ray E. Teal was an American actor and musician.
Ray Teal began his career as a musician, playing trumpet in various bands throughout the 1920s. However, he eventually transitioned to acting and became a prolific character actor in Hollywood. Teal is perhaps best known for his role as Sheriff Roy Coffee on the TV series "Bonanza," a role he played for 12 years. He appeared in over 250 films and TV shows over the course of his career, often playing law enforcement officials or other authority figures. Teal was known for his deep, commanding voice and his imposing presence on screen. In addition to his acting career, Teal was also a dedicated member of the Church of Scientology and worked as an auditor for the church in his later years.
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Ray "Crash" Corrigan
Ray "Crash" Corrigan (February 14, 1902 Milwaukee-August 10, 1976 Brookings) also known as Raymond Benard, Ray Corrigan, Crash Corrigan, Gorilla, Ray Benard, Nbongo, Naba, Crash, Ray 'Crash' Corrigan, Raymond Benitz or Ray Bernard was an American actor and stunt performer.
He first gained fame as a stuntman and horseman in Western films of the 1930s and 1940s, but also appeared in a variety of other genres including horror, sci-fi, and adventure. Corrigan was known for his athletic ability and willingness to perform dangerous stunts, such as riding horses at high speeds, jumping off cliffs, and even wrestling live alligators. He also had a long career in television, appearing in shows such as "The Range Rider" and "The Adventures of Superman". In addition to his work on screen, Corrigan also owned and operated a ranch where he trained horses and other animals for films and television. He was inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in 1970.
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Fuzzy Knight
Fuzzy Knight (May 9, 1901 Fairmont-February 23, 1976 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. John Forrest Knight, John Forrest "Fuzzy" Knight or Fuzzy was an American actor and singer.
He began his career as a vaudeville performer in the 1920s and made his Broadway debut in "Fine and Dandy" in 1930. He later transitioned to films, appearing in over 180 movies throughout the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. Knight was often cast as a sidekick or comic relief character in westerns and musicals, and was known for his gravelly voice and trademark mustache. He also had success as a singer, recording several albums and appearing on various radio programs in the 1940s. In the 1950s, Knight transitioned to television and appeared on a variety of shows including "The Lone Ranger" and "The Roy Rogers Show". He continued to act in small roles until his death in 1976 at the age of 74.
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Gene Roth
Gene Roth (January 8, 1903 Redfield-July 19, 1976 Los Angeles) also known as Eugene Stutenroth, Eugene H. Roth, Eugene O. Roth, Gene Stutenroth, Eugene Roth, Eugene Oliver Edgar Stutenroth or Eyugene Roth was an American actor. He had three children, Dorene Roth, Eugene Arthur Roth and Rosemarie Roth.
Roth started his career as a jazz musician and later transitioned into acting. He appeared in over 250 films and television shows between 1936 and 1967. Roth was known for his roles as tough guys, gangsters, and villains in many classic films such as "The Asphalt Jungle" (1950), "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951), and "The Rebel Set" (1959). He also appeared in several Three Stooges films, playing various roles including villains and authority figures. In addition to acting, Roth was also a skilled cartoonist and worked as an illustrator for several newspapers. He passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 73.
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Sid Silvers
Sid Silvers (January 16, 1901 Brooklyn-August 20, 1976 Brooklyn) was an American comedian, actor, screenwriter and lyricist.
Sid Silvers began his career as a vaudeville comedian in the 1920s and later transitioned to writing and performing for radio and television. He was a regular writer for the popular comedy program "The Big Show" in the 1950s, which featured stars such as Tallulah Bankhead and Ethel Merman. Silvers also wrote screenplays for several Hollywood films, including "The Marx Brothers' At the Circus" and "Pal Joey" starring Frank Sinatra. As a lyricist, he wrote songs for popular musicals such as "Red, Hot and Blue" and "High Society." Silvers was known for his witty and irreverent sense of humor and his contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated today.
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Alan Baxter
Alan Baxter (November 19, 1908 East Cleveland-May 7, 1976 Woodland Hills) also known as Alan Edwin Baxter was an American actor.
Baxter appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, often playing supporting roles. He was known for his deep, baritone voice and his commanding presence on screen. Baxter's early film roles include "The Trial of Mary Dugan" (1929) and "The Squaw Man" (1931). He went on to work with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Alfred Hitchcock, who cast Baxter in "Saboteur" (1942) and "North by Northwest" (1959). Baxter was also a regular on television, appearing on shows such as "Perry Mason" and "Bonanza." In addition to his acting career, Baxter served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.
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William Tannen
William Tannen (November 17, 1911 New York City-December 2, 1976 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Bill Tannen, Billy Tannen, Bill Tannan, William J. Tannen or Bill Tanmen was an American actor.
He grew up in the Bronx and began his career in the entertainment industry as a child actor. Tannen appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career, often playing tough and authoritative characters such as police officers, judges, and military personnel. He worked with notable directors such as Cecil B. DeMille, Alfred Hitchcock, and Orson Welles. Tannen was also a regular on the television series "The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp" and "The Deputy." In addition to acting, Tannen was also a producer and director on several television series. He was married to actress Patricia Hardy and had two children.
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Andrew Tombes
Andrew Tombes (June 29, 1885 Ashtabula-March 17, 1976 New York City) also known as Andrew J. Tombes or Andrew Toombes was an American actor, comedian and character actor.
Tombes began his career in vaudeville and then transitioned to film in the 1930s. He appeared in over 100 films, often playing comedic or eccentric characters. Some of his notable roles include playing J. Pinkerton Snoopington in the film "The Lone Wolf Takes a Chance" and Constable Sweeney in the film "The Bank Dick" starring W.C. Fields. Tombes was also known for his work on radio, particularly on the sitcom "The Jack Benny Program" where he played a recurring character named Andy Devine. Tombes remained active in the entertainment industry until his death in 1976 at the age of 90.
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Warner Anderson
Warner Anderson (March 10, 1911 Brooklyn-August 26, 1976 Santa Monica) was an American actor and narrator.
Anderson began his career as a radio announcer in the 1930s before transitioning to acting in the 1940s. He appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, including "The Caine Mutiny" and "The Lineup," as well as popular shows like "Perry Mason" and "Dragnet." Anderson was also well-known for his voice-over work, providing the narration for the television series "The Untouchables" and the film "The Comancheros." He continued to work in the entertainment industry until his death in 1976 at the age of 65.
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Richard Arlen
Richard Arlen (September 1, 1899 Saint Paul-March 28, 1976 Hollywood) otherwise known as Cornelius Richard Van Mattimore, Van Mattimore, Dick, Arlen, Sylvanus Richard "Van" Mattimore or Sylvanus Richard Van Mattimore was an American actor. His child is called Richard Arlen Jr..
Before he became an actor, Richard Arlen was a pilot in the United States Army Air Service during World War I. He first gained popularity in Hollywood during the silent film era and starred in several notable films including "Wings" (1927), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Arlen transitioned into talkies seamlessly and appeared in over 140 films throughout his career. He was known for his work in Westerns, particularly for his role as the lead in "The Virginian" (1929). Arlen was also a skilled polo player and often participated in tournaments. In his later years, he made several appearances on television shows including "Perry Mason" and "Gunsmoke."
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James Flavin
James Flavin (May 14, 1906 Portland-April 23, 1976 Los Angeles) also known as James William Flavin Jr., James Flaven, Jim Flavin or James William Flavin, Jr. was an American actor and character actor. He had one child, William James Flavin.
Flavin appeared in over 500 films between 1926 and 1971. He started his acting career in the silent film era and continued to work in Hollywood until his death in 1976. He was a versatile character actor who played a wide variety of roles in films such as "The Lost Weekend" (1945), "The Asphalt Jungle" (1950), and "The Wild One" (1953). Flavin was also a frequent collaborator of director John Ford, appearing in over 20 of his films including "The Grapes of Wrath" (1940) and "The Searchers" (1956). In addition to his film work, Flavin also appeared in numerous television shows such as "The Lone Ranger" and "Perry Mason." He was known for his professionalism on set and was highly respected by his fellow actors and crew members.
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Frank Forest
Frank Forest (October 17, 1896 Minneapolis–Saint Paul-December 23, 1976 Santa Monica) also known as Frank Hayek was an American singer and actor.
Forest began his career as a singer in vaudeville before transitioning to acting in films in the 1920s. He appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, including roles in classics such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Wizard of Oz". Forest was also known for his work in Westerns, often playing the villainous roles. In addition to his film career, Forest was also a successful singer and recorded several popular songs throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He was married to actress Mary Brian from 1930 to 1945.
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Bobby Barber
Bobby Barber (December 18, 1894 New York City-May 24, 1976 Seal Beach) otherwise known as Robert Barber was an American actor.
Barber started his career in vaudeville, performing with his brothers in a comedy act. He later transitioned to film and became a prolific character actor, appearing in over 200 films throughout his career. He had a knack for physical comedy and often played bumbling or hapless characters. Barber was a regular player in the films of the Three Stooges and worked on numerous television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. He was also a founding member of the Hollywood Canteen, a club where entertainment industry workers could socialize during World War II. Despite his extensive filmography, Barber remained humble about his craft, stating in an interview, "I'm not a star, I'm just a character actor trying to make a living."
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Joseph Henabery
Joseph Henabery (January 15, 1888 Omaha-February 18, 1976 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Joseph J. Henaberry, H.A. Henneberry, Jos. Henabery or Joseph E. Henabery was an American actor, screenwriter, film director and film editor. He had one child, Robert Henabery.
Henabery started his career as an actor in 1908, appearing in the film "The Count of Monte Cristo". He went on to act in several silent films and eventually became a director in 1913. He worked for several studios including Universal Studios, Pathe and Fox Film Corporation. One of his most well-known directorial works is "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925), which was a silent horror film.
Aside from directing, Henabery also contributed to the film industry as a screenwriter and film editor. In the 1930s, he transitioned to working primarily as an editor and continued to work on films until his retirement in 1956. Some of his editing credits include "The House of Rothschild" (1934), "Gunga Din" (1939), and "The Women" (1939).
Throughout his career, Henabery worked with several notable actors and actresses including Rudolph Valentino, Gloria Swanson, Rosalind Russell and Spencer Tracy. He was also actively involved in the Directors Guild of America and served as a vice-president from 1940 to 1941.
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Niles Welch
Niles Welch (July 29, 1888 Hartford-November 21, 1976 Laguna Niguel) also known as Niles Eugene Welch or Niles Welsh was an American actor.
He began his career in silent films and made his debut in the 1913 film "The Stolen Loaf". He went on to appear in over 120 films during his career. Welch's most notable performances include his roles in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1923), "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925), and "Beau Geste" (1926). He also acted in several television series during the 1950s and 1960s. Aside from acting, Welch was a songwriter, composer, and musician, and he wrote many songs during his career. In addition, he was a pioneer in the development of sound technology for films and was one of the early advocates of adding sound to movies. Welch was married twice and had one child. He passed away in Laguna Niguel, California in 1976 at the age of 88.
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Paul Gilbert
Paul Gilbert (December 27, 1918 New York City-February 13, 1976 Hollywood) otherwise known as Paul MacMahon, Ed MacMahon or Ed McMahon was an American actor. He had two children, Melissa Gilbert and Jonathan Gilbert.
Gilbert was best known for his role as the banker, Horace Vandergelder, in the original Broadway production of Hello, Dolly! in 1964. He also appeared in several films including "The Andromeda Strain" (1971) and "Jacqueline Susann's Once Is Not Enough" (1975). He had a successful career in television, guest starring on popular shows like "Gunsmoke" and "Love, American Style". Gilbert was often confused with television personality Ed McMahon, who had a similar name, leading him to also go by the name Paul MacMahon or Ed MacMahon. Gilbert died in 1976 at the age of 57 from a heart attack.
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Billy Halop
Billy Halop (February 11, 1920 New York City-November 9, 1976 Brentwood) also known as William Halop or Bill Halop was an American actor.
He was best known for his roles in the Dead End Kids film series, where he played the character of "Tommy" alongside other young actors such as Huntz Hall, Leo Gorcey, and Bobby Jordan. Halop began his career on Broadway at a young age and transitioned to film in the 1930s. He continued to act in films and television throughout his career, appearing in shows such as The Twilight Zone, Gunsmoke, and Perry Mason. In addition to acting, Halop also served in World War II and was awarded a Purple Heart for his service. He passed away at the age of 56 from a heart attack.
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Frankie Darro
Frankie Darro (December 22, 1917 Chicago-December 25, 1976 Huntington Beach) otherwise known as Frank Johnson, Frank Johnson Jr, Frankie Darrow, Frank Darro, Frank Darrow or Frank Johnson, Jr. was an American actor, stunt performer and child actor. He had one child, Darlene Darro.
Frankie Darro began his career in Hollywood in the 1920s as a child actor, appearing in films such as "The Iron Horse" and "The Patent Leather Kid". He then became known for his work in B-movies and serials throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often performing his own stunts. Darro also worked as a musician and songwriter, contributing to several films and recording songs for RCA Victor. In the 1950s, he transitioned to working behind the scenes as a talent agent and casting director before passing away in 1976 at the age of 59. Despite his relatively short life, Darro left a significant mark on the film industry and is still remembered today for his contributions to American cinema.
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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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Winston Hibler
Winston Hibler (October 8, 1910 Harrisburg-August 8, 1976 Burbank) a.k.a. Hibbie was an American film director, film producer, screenwriter, television producer, television director, actor, author and songwriter. He had three children, Christopher Hibler, John Michael Hibler and Melissa Hibler.
Hibler started his career in the film industry working for Walt Disney Productions in the 1940s. He produced and directed several True-Life Adventure films, a series of documentaries that focused on wildlife and the natural world. His work on one of these films, "The Living Desert," won him an Academy Award in 1953.
In addition to his work at Disney, Hibler also wrote and directed several educational films for schools and universities. He also wrote a number of children's books, including "The Prairie Dog Family" and "The True Book of Farm Animals."
Hibler was a member of the Motion Picture Academy and the Writers Guild of America. He passed away in 1976 at the age of 65.
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Busby Berkeley
Busby Berkeley (November 29, 1895 Los Angeles-March 14, 1976 Palm Desert) also known as William Berkeley Enos, Buzz or Busby Berkeley William Enos was an American film director, choreographer, television director and actor.
He is known for his elaborate and visually stunning dance sequences in Hollywood musicals of the 1930s and 1940s. Berkeley began his career as a choreographer on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood. Some of his most famous works include the dance sequences in films such as "42nd Street," "Gold Diggers of 1933," and "Footlight Parade." He was known for his innovative use of camera angles and intricate geometric patterns in his choreography. After serving in World War II, Berkeley returned to Hollywood and continued working in film, television, and stage productions. Despite his success, Berkeley struggled with alcoholism and financial difficulties later in life. He died at the age of 80.
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Romer Grey
Romer Grey (October 1, 1909 Lackawaxen Township-March 8, 1976 Pasadena) also known as Romer Zane Grey or R.C. Grey was an American screenwriter, film producer, actor and cinematographer.
He was the son of the famous Western novelist Zane Grey and grew up in a family of writers. Romer began his career as a journalist and worked for newspapers in New York City and Los Angeles. He then moved to Hollywood and worked as a screenwriter for many major studios. He also produced and acted in a number of Western films. Romer Grey is best known for writing and producing the 1955 film "The Naked Street," which starred Farley Granger and Anne Bancroft. Apart from his work in the film industry, he was also a pilot and a sailor. In the 1960s, he took part in several sailing competitions, including the Transpacific Yacht Race. Romer Grey passed away in 1976 due to a heart attack.
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Irving Lerner
Irving Lerner (March 7, 1909 New York City-December 25, 1976 Los Angeles) was an American film director, film editor, film producer, cinematographer, television director and actor.
Lerner was best known for his work in film noir and experimental cinema. He began his career as a film editor, working on films such as The House on 92nd Street and Boomerang! before transitioning to directing with the 1952 film, Murder by Contract. He went on to direct several other notable films, including The Bigamist and the docudrama, The Ernie Kovacs Show.
In addition to his film work, Lerner directed several episodes of popular television shows such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents and The Twilight Zone. He also acted in a number of films, often in small supporting roles.
Lerner was known for his innovative approach to filmmaking and his use of non-linear narrative structures. He was often admired by fellow filmmakers for his technical expertise and his ability to craft visually stunning works. Despite his contributions to the film industry, Lerner's work is not as well known as that of other filmmakers from his era, largely due to his preference for smaller budget and experimental films.
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Liam Dunn
Liam Dunn (November 12, 1916 New Jersey-April 11, 1976 Granada Hills) also known as Liam Dunne was an American actor.
He began his career as a theater actor in the 1930s and transitioned into film and television work in the 1950s. Dunn appeared in many popular television series of the time, including "The Twilight Zone," "The Fugitive," and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." He also had numerous film roles, including in "The Sound of Music" and "Rosemary's Baby." Dunn was known for his versatility, able to play both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. He was also a founding member of the prestigious Actors Studio in New York. In addition to his work as an actor, Dunn also served as a mentor to many aspiring actors, and was a respected acting teacher in his later years. He passed away at the age of 59 from a heart attack.
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Johnny Mercer
Johnny Mercer (November 18, 1909 Savannah-June 25, 1976 Hollywood) a.k.a. Johhny Mercer, John Herndon Mercer, John Mercer or John Herndon "Johnny" Mercer was an American songwriter, lyricist, singer, composer, film score composer and actor. He had two children, Amanda Mercer and John Jefferson Mercer.
Mercer is widely considered as one of the greatest lyricists in American music history, having penned over 1500 songs in his career. He is perhaps best known for his collaborations with composers such as Harold Arlen, Hoagy Carmichael, and Duke Ellington. Some of his most famous works include "Moon River," "Autumn Leaves," "Accentuate the Positive," and "Jeepers Creepers."
In addition to his successful songwriting career, Mercer also co-founded Capitol Records and served as its first president. He won four Academy Awards for Best Original Song, and was nominated a total of 18 times. Mercer was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the American Theater Hall of Fame. His contributions to American music have had a lasting impact and his songs continue to be covered by artists across genres.
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Fritz Lang
Fritz Lang (December 5, 1890 Vienna-August 2, 1976 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Friedrich Anton Christian Lang, Friedrich Christian Anton Lang or Friedrich Christian Anton "Fritz" Lang was an American film director, film producer, screenwriter, actor, film editor and cabaret artist.
He was born in Vienna, Austria-Hungary, and began his career in Germany, where he became famous for his expressionist films such as "Metropolis" and "M". He later fled to the United States after the rise of the Nazi party, where he continued his successful filmmaking career. Lang's work is known for its themes of social commentary, as well as his use of innovative camera techniques and set design. Some of his other notable works include "The Testament of Dr. Mabuse", "Fury", and "The Big Heat".
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Jesse Fuller
Jesse Fuller (March 12, 1896 Jonesboro-January 29, 1976 Oakland) otherwise known as Fuller, Jesse, The Lone Cat or Jesse "Lone Cat" Fuller was an American songwriter, singer, musician and actor.
Fuller is best known for his unique style of playing the guitar and harmonica simultaneously while playing a foot-operated bass drum at the same time, earning him the nickname "The Lone Cat". In addition to his musical talents, he was also an accomplished artist and inventor.
Born in Jonesboro, Georgia in 1896, Fuller grew up in a musical family and began playing the guitar at a young age. He moved to Oakland, California in the 1920s where he played on the streets for tips and eventually started performing in bars and clubs.
Fuller's career took off in the 1950s when he was discovered by record producer Ken Goldstein, who recorded Fuller's first album in 1954. He went on to record several more albums and tour throughout the United States and Europe.
In addition to his music career, Fuller was also an accomplished artist and created intricate drawings and paintings. He was also a talented inventor and created several musical instruments, including the "fotdella", a combination of a guitar and bass.
Fuller continued to perform and record music until his death in Oakland in 1976. He is remembered as a pioneer of the "one man band" style and for his contributions to American folk and blues music.
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Al Flosso
Al Flosso (October 10, 1895 Brooklyn-May 13, 1976 New York City) also known as Albert Levinson or The Coney Island Fakir was an American magician and actor. He had one child, Jackie Levinson.
Flosso was born to Russian-Jewish immigrants and grew up in poverty in Brooklyn. He began performing as a child, and at the age of 15, he worked as a busboy at a Coney Island sideshow. It was there that he was inspired to become a magician and began studying under the sideshow's resident magician.
Flosso quickly gained a reputation as a skilled magician and performer, known for his wit and humor as well as his magic tricks. He performed on the vaudeville circuit and in venues around the world, including Europe and Asia.
In the 1940s, Flosso opened his own magic shop in New York City, which became a popular destination for both amateur and professional magicians. He also appeared in several films and television shows, including Abbott and Costello Go to Mars and The Ed Sullivan Show.
Flosso was known for his signature trick, the "Miser's Dream," in which he produced a seemingly endless number of coins from thin air. He continued to perform until shortly before his death in 1976 at the age of 80. Today, he is remembered as a legendary figure in the world of magic, and his legacy lives on in the many magicians he inspired and influenced over the course of his career.
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Irvin Willat
Irvin Willat (November 18, 1890 Stamford-April 17, 1976 Santa Monica) also known as I. V. Willat, Irvin V. Willat, I.V. Willat, Irwin Willat, I.W. Willat or Doc was an American film director, screenwriter, cinematographer, actor and film producer.
He began his career in the film industry as an actor in 1912, appearing in several early silent films. Willat eventually transitioned to directing, and throughout the 1910s and 1920s directed a number of feature-length films, including "Behind the Lines" (1916), "The False Faces" (1919), and "Monte Cristo" (1922).
In addition to directing, Willat was also known for pioneering several innovative filmmaking techniques, including the use of handheld cameras and on-location filming. He was also one of the earliest filmmakers to experiment with color, using a two-color process for his 1925 film "Wolf Blood."
Despite his significant contributions to the film industry, Willat's career faded in the 1930s, and he ultimately retired from filmmaking in the 1940s. He lived out the rest of his life in Santa Monica, California, where he died in 1976 at the age of 85.
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