American movie stars died in 1980
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 1980:
Charles McGraw
Charles McGraw (May 10, 1914 Des Moines-July 30, 1980 Studio City) also known as Charles Butters, Charles Mc Graw or Charlie was an American actor.
He initially worked as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television. McGraw is best known for his roles in film noir, often portraying tough and ruthless characters. He appeared in films such as "The Killers," "The Narrow Margin," and "Spartacus." McGraw also had a successful career on television, appearing on shows like "The Untouchables," "Bonanza," and "The Twilight Zone." Despite struggling with alcoholism throughout his career, McGraw continued to work steadily in Hollywood until his death from a heart attack in 1980.
Read more about Charles McGraw on Wikipedia »
Tom Mason
Tom Mason (April 29, 1920 Illinois-December 1, 1980 Orange) otherwise known as Thomas Robert Mason or Thomas Robert "Tom" Mason was an American actor, film producer and chiropractor.
Mason was best known for his prolific career as a character actor. He appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career, often playing tough guys or authority figures. Some of his most notable roles include Sheriff Bridges in the hit TV show "Gunsmoke" and Judge Charles C. White in the film "Bonnie and Clyde".
Mason was also involved in film production, working as an executive producer on several films in the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, he was also a licensed chiropractor and owned his own practice in Orange, California.
Despite his successful career, Mason struggled with personal demons and battled addiction throughout his life. He died in 1980 at the age of 60 from complications related to alcoholism.
Read more about Tom Mason on Wikipedia »
David Janssen
David Janssen (March 27, 1931 Naponee-February 13, 1980 Malibu) otherwise known as David Harold Meyer, Davey or Dave Janssen was an American songwriter and actor.
Janssen gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Richard Kimble in the television series "The Fugitive" (1963-1967), which earned him a Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama. Janssen also appeared in several films throughout his career, including "To Hell and Back" (1955), "Ouragan sur le Caine" (1954) and "The Green Berets" (1968). In addition to acting, Janssen was also a talented songwriter, writing and singing the theme song for "The Fugitive". Janssen passed away in 1980 at the age of 48 due to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most iconic actors of his time.
Read more about David Janssen on Wikipedia »
Raymond Bailey
Raymond Bailey (May 6, 1904 San Francisco-April 15, 1980 Irvine) also known as Ray Bailey or Raymond Thomas Bailey was an American sailor and actor.
Bailey served in the United States Navy for three years before pursuing a career in acting. He appeared in over 60 films and television shows throughout his career, including the popular television series “The Beverly Hillbillies,” where he played the role of wealthy banker Milburn Drysdale. Bailey also made numerous guest appearances on other television shows, such as “Perry Mason,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” and “My Three Sons.” He was also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Read more about Raymond Bailey on Wikipedia »
Billie Thomas
Billie Thomas (March 12, 1931 Los Angeles-October 10, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as William Thomas Jr., Buckwheat, William "Billie" Thomas, Jr., Willie Thomas, Buckwheat Thomas or William 'Buckwheat' Thomas was an American actor and child actor. He had one child, Billy Jr..
Thomas was best known for his portrayal of Buckwheat in the popular comedy series, "Our Gang" from 1934 to 1944. He was one of the longest-serving cast members in the series, appearing in over 80 episodes.
After "Our Gang", Thomas continued to act in films and television shows but struggled to break away from his Buckwheat persona. He appeared in small roles in popular series such as "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Family Affair" and in films such as "The Biscuit Eater" and "The Kid from Left Field."
In addition to his acting career, Thomas was also a talented musician and played the trumpet in a number of jazz bands. He also served in the army during the Korean War.
Thomas passed away from a heart attack in 1980 at the age of 49. Despite his success as a child actor, he was buried in an unmarked grave until fans of the "Our Gang" series raised money for a headstone in 2003.
Read more about Billie Thomas on Wikipedia »
Knox Manning
Knox Manning (January 17, 1904 Worcester-August 26, 1980 Woodland Hills) also known as Charles Knox Manning was an American actor, voice actor and announcer.
He started his career as a newsboy and then as a writer for a local newspaper before he landed a job in radio in the 1930s. He became a well-known announcer for various radio shows, including "The Lux Radio Theatre" and "The Screen Guild Theater." Manning also had a successful career as a voice actor, providing voices for various characters in animated films and TV shows. He also appeared as an actor in several films and TV shows, including "Leave It to Beaver" and "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet." Manning was admired in the industry for his distinct voice and professionalism, and he remained active throughout his career until his death in 1980.
Read more about Knox Manning on Wikipedia »
Leonard Barr
Leonard Barr (September 27, 1903 West Virginia-November 22, 1980 Burbank) also known as Leonard Barra or Barr and Estes was an American comedian and actor.
Born to a Jewish family, Barr began his career in the entertainment industry as a vaudeville performer. He later transitioned to radio and made numerous appearances on Johnny Carson's "The Tonight Show". He also had recurring roles on popular TV shows such as "McHale's Navy" and "The Lucy Show". Barr was also known for his voice acting work and provided the voice of Ben Grimm/The Thing in the original "Fantastic Four" cartoon series. Despite his success, Barr struggled with alcoholism throughout his life which ultimately contributed to his death at the age of 77.
Read more about Leonard Barr on Wikipedia »
Don "Red" Barry
Don "Red" Barry (January 11, 1912 Houston-July 17, 1980 North Hollywood) also known as Donald Barry De Acosta, Don Barry, Donald 'Red' Barry, Donald M. Barry, Donald Red Barry, Donald Barry, Don Red Barry, Donald Berry, Donald "Red" Barry de Acosta, Don'Red'Barry, Milton Poimboeuf, "Red" Barry or "Red" was an American actor, writer and film producer.
Don "Red" Barry was born on January 11, 1912, in Houston, Texas, as Donald Barry De Acosta. He started his career as a vaudeville actor and later moved to Hollywood in the 1930s. He is best known for his roles in several Western films and serials such as "The Adventures of Red Ryder". Barry also acted in a variety of other genres including drama, crime, and science fiction.
Apart from acting, Barry was also a prolific writer and producer. He wrote and produced several films including "The Female Animal" and "The Big Chase". He also appeared on television shows including "The Lone Ranger" and "Gunsmoke".
During World War II, Barry served as a bomber pilot in the United States Army Air Forces. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service. After the war, he continued his acting and producing career until his death on July 17, 1980, in North Hollywood, California.
Read more about Don "Red" Barry on Wikipedia »
Bob Nolan
Bob Nolan (April 13, 1908 Winnipeg-June 16, 1980 Newport Beach) a.k.a. Nolan, Bob, Clarence Robert Nobles, The Stephen Foster of the West, America's No. 1 Cowboy Composer, Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Noland and The Sons of the Pioneers, Bob Nolan and the Sons of the Pioneers or Robert Clarence Nobles was an American singer, singer-songwriter, actor and film score composer. He had one child, Roberta Irene.
Bob Nolan is best known for being the lead vocalist and main songwriter of the Western group Sons of the Pioneers. He joined the group in 1934 and went on to write many of their most famous songs, including "Tumbling Tumbleweeds," "Cool Water," and "The Timber Trail." Nolan's warm and distinctive voice, as well as his skill at crafting evocative and poetic lyrics, helped to define the sound and style of Western music in the mid-20th century.
In addition to his work with the Sons of the Pioneers, Nolan also appeared in several Western films, often in supporting roles or as a member of a singing group. He composed music for several films as well, including "Rio Grande," "Red River," and "Wagon Master."
Nolan continued to perform with the Sons of the Pioneers until his retirement in 1951. After that, he continued to write songs and occasionally perform solo as a singer and guitarist. He was inducted into both the Western Music Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to American music.
Read more about Bob Nolan on Wikipedia »
Allen Hoskins
Allen Hoskins (August 9, 1920 Boston-July 26, 1980 Oakland) otherwise known as Allen Clayton Hoskins, Farina, Our Gang or Allen "Farina" Hoskins was an American actor. He had two children, Candy Hoskins and Chris Hoskins.
Hoskins began his acting career at the age of three when he was cast as a regular member of the "Our Gang" comedy series. He played the character of "Farina" from 1922 to 1931 and appeared in over 100 shorts. After leaving the show, Hoskins appeared in several other films, including "Thundering Fleas" and "General Spanky," before retiring from the entertainment industry in the early 1940s.
In addition to his acting career, Hoskins was also a decorated war veteran. He served in the United States Army during World War II and was awarded two Purple Hearts for injuries he sustained in battle. After the war, Hoskins worked as a civilian for the Veterans Administration in Los Angeles.
Sadly, Hoskins passed away at the age of 59 from a heart attack in his home in Oakland, California. Despite his early success as a child actor, Hoskins faced financial struggles later in life and is remembered as a talented performer who made a significant contribution to early Hollywood cinema.
Read more about Allen Hoskins on Wikipedia »
David Sharpe
David Sharpe (February 2, 1910 St. Louis-March 30, 1980 Altadena) otherwise known as Crown Prince of Daredevils, Davy Sharpe, David H. Sharp, D.H. Sharpe, David Sharp, David H. Sharpe, Crown prince of stuntmen, David Hardin Sharpe, Davey or Dave Sharpe was an American stunt performer, actor, child actor and writer. His children are called Kathryn Sharpe and Virginia Sharpe.
David Sharpe began his career as a child actor, appearing in silent films alongside stars such as Mary Pickford and Charlie Chaplin. However, he found his true calling as a stunt performer in the 1930s, working on films such as "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and "Gone with the Wind." He became known for his willingness to perform dangerous stunts, such as jumping off buildings and setting himself on fire.
In addition to his work as a stunt performer, Sharpe also acted in a number of films and television shows, including "The Lone Ranger," "The Cisco Kid," and "The Wild Wild West." He wrote several books about his experiences as a stunt performer, including "The Crown Prince of Daredevils" and "They Call Me Daring."
Sharpe was inducted into the Stuntman's Hall of Fame in 1977, and his legacy as a pioneering stunt performer continues to inspire generations of performers today.
Read more about David Sharpe on Wikipedia »
Herbie Faye
Herbie Faye (February 2, 1899 New York City-June 28, 1980 Las Vegas) also known as Herby Faye or Herbie Fay was an American actor.
He began his career in vaudeville and later transitioned to film and television. Faye appeared in over 150 films including "I Love Lucy", "The Odd Couple", and "The Dick Van Dyke Show". He was also a regular cast member on "The Phil Silvers Show" and "The Joey Bishop Show". In addition to acting, Faye was also a writer and director. He served in the US Army during World War I and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service. Faye passed away at the age of 81 in Las Vegas.
Read more about Herbie Faye on Wikipedia »
Jimmy Durante
Jimmy Durante (February 10, 1893 Brooklyn-January 29, 1980 Santa Monica) also known as James Francis Durante, Ragtime Jimmy, The Schnoz, The Great Schnozzola, Schnozzola, Durante, Jimmy 'Schnozzle' Durante or James Francis "Jimmy" Durante was an American comedian, singer, actor and pianist. He had one child, CeCe Durante-Bloum.
Durante's career spanned over six decades, and he was known for his unique style of humor, particularly his prominent nose and gravelly voice. He began his career performing in vaudeville acts and later transitioned to radio, television, and film. Some of his most well-known roles include appearances in films such as "It Happened in Brooklyn" and "Billy Rose's Jumbo." Durante was also a successful recording artist, with several hit songs including "Inka Dinka Doo" and "As Time Goes By." He was a frequent guest on various talk shows, including "The Ed Sullivan Show." Despite his success as an entertainer, Durante was also known for his charitable work, often performing benefit shows and donating to various causes. Durante passed away at the age of 86 in Santa Monica, California.
Read more about Jimmy Durante on Wikipedia »
Strother Martin
Strother Martin (March 26, 1919 Kokomo-August 1, 1980 Thousand Oaks) also known as Strather Martin, Strother Martin, Jr., Strother Douglas Martin Jr. or T-Bone Martin was an American actor, swimming teacher and swimmer.
He was best known for his distinctive voice and often played character roles in Western and prison-themed films. Martin appeared in over 200 film and television productions throughout his career, including the films "Cool Hand Luke," "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "The Wild Bunch." In addition to his acting career, Martin was an accomplished swimmer and served as a swimming instructor in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
Read more about Strother Martin on Wikipedia »
George Raft
George Raft (September 26, 1901 Hell's Kitchen-November 24, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as George Ranft or Georgie was an American actor and dancer.
Raft began his career as a dancer in New York City nightclubs before transitioning to acting. He gained fame for his tough guy roles in films such as Scarface (1932) and Each Dawn I Die (1939). Raft's career was aided by his real-life connections to gangsters, which only added to his tough guy persona. However, Raft turned down several roles that would have made him even more famous, including the lead role in High Sierra (1941) and the role of Rick in Casablanca (1942). Raft's fortunes eventually declined, but he continued to work in films, television, and on stage until his death in 1980.
Read more about George Raft on Wikipedia »
Milburn Stone
Milburn Stone (July 5, 1904 Burrton-June 12, 1980 La Jolla) also known as Milburne Stone, Milburn Stone (Doc) "Millie", Milly or Hugh Milburn Stone was an American actor. He had one child, Shirley Stone.
Milburn Stone was best known for his role as Dr. Galen "Doc" Adams in the popular television series Gunsmoke, which aired from 1955 to 1975. Prior to his success in Gunsmoke, he acted in many western films such as "Dodge City" and "Trail of the Lonesome Pine". During World War II, Stone served in the United States Army Air Corps as a radio operator and aerial gunner. In addition to acting, he was also an accomplished musician and played the piano, guitar, and banjo. Stone passed away in La Jolla, California at the age of 75.
Read more about Milburn Stone on Wikipedia »
Sam Levene
Sam Levene (August 28, 1905 Russia-December 28, 1980 New York City) a.k.a. Samuel Levine was an American actor.
Levene began his career as a stage actor in Yiddish theater and moved on to Broadway productions in the 1920s. He then transitioned to film in the 1930s and had a successful career in Hollywood as a character actor, appearing in over 50 films. He was particularly known for his roles in the film noir genre, including "The Killers" and "Brute Force." Levene returned to the stage in the 1950s and continued to act in both theater and television until his death in 1980. He is remembered for his distinctive New York accent and his ability to portray tough, streetwise characters.
Read more about Sam Levene on Wikipedia »
Lou Holtz
Lou Holtz (April 11, 1893-September 22, 1980) was an American comedian and actor.
Actually, Lou Holtz (born January 6, 1937) is a retired American football coach and player. He is best known for his coaching career at multiple universities including Notre Dame, where he led the team to a national championship in 1988. Holtz was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2008. After retiring from coaching, he became a television analyst and motivational speaker. Holtz has authored several books on leadership and perseverance.
Read more about Lou Holtz on Wikipedia »
Michael Strong
Michael Strong (February 8, 1918 Manhattan-September 17, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as Cecil Natapoff was an American actor.
He began his acting career on Broadway before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. Strong's roles were often villainous characters, although he occasionally played sympathetic characters as well. He appeared in over 150 films and television shows, including "The Great White Hope", "Patton", and "The Godfather". In addition to his acting career, Strong was also involved in politics and social activism, advocating for civil rights and nuclear disarmament.
Read more about Michael Strong on Wikipedia »
Wally Wales
Wally Wales (November 13, 1895 Sheridan-February 10, 1980 Sheridan) also known as Hal Taliaferro, Floyd Taliaferro Alderson, Floyd Taliaferro, Walt Williams, Hal Talioferr, Hal Talioferro, Floyd Talafierro Alderson, Wellington E. Wales or Hal Talliaferro was an American actor.
With over 260 film and television credits to his name, Wally Wales was a prominent figure in the Western film genre during the 1920s and 1930s. He started his career as a stuntman and became a popular action star in the silent film era. In the 1940s, he shifted his attention towards television and appeared in many popular western series of the time, including The Lone Ranger, The Cisco Kid, and The Gene Autry Show. Apart from his acting career, Wales was also an accomplished pilot and served as a transport pilot during World War II. What set Wally Wales apart from other actors of his time was his ability to perform high-risk stunts without the aid of special effects or safety equipment, making him a beloved icon in the film industry that is remembered to this day.
Read more about Wally Wales on Wikipedia »
Daniel Seltzer
Daniel Seltzer (February 13, 1933 Passaic-March 2, 1980 New York City) was an American actor.
He began his career in New York theater, working with famed directors such as Mike Nichols and Joseph Papp. Seltzer later transitioned to television and film, appearing in popular TV shows such as The Twilight Zone, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Kojak. He also had roles in films such as The Parallax View and Dog Day Afternoon. Despite his promising career, Seltzer struggled with mental health issues and alcoholism, which eventually led to his untimely death at the age of 47.
Read more about Daniel Seltzer 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 »
Gower Champion
Gower Champion (June 22, 1919 Geneva-August 25, 1980 New York City) a.k.a. Gower Carlyle Champion, Marge and Gower Champion or Gower was an American actor, television director, dancer, choreographer and theatre director. He had two children, Gregg Champion and Blake Champion.
Gower Champion is best known for his contributions to the world of musical theater. He started his career as a dancer in the chorus of Broadway shows before becoming a choreographer himself. He created dance numbers for numerous productions including "Lend an Ear", "Show Boat", and "Bye Bye Birdie", which earned him a Tony Award for Best Choreography in 1961.
Champion was also a successful director, directing both stage productions and television shows. He directed the original Broadway production of "Hello, Dolly!" as well as the film adaptation starring Barbra Streisand. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for directing a television special celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Academy Awards in 1978.
Champion's work in theater and film has had a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. He helped establish the modern musical as we know it today and his innovative dance numbers and staging techniques continue to influence choreographers and directors.
Read more about Gower Champion on Wikipedia »
Alfred Hitchcock
Alfred Hitchcock (August 13, 1899 Leytonstone-April 29, 1980 Bel-Air) a.k.a. Alfred Joseph Hitchcock, Hitch, The Master of Suspense, Sir Alfred Hitchcock, Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock, Mr. Alfred Hitchcock, Sir Alfred Joseph Hitchcock, KBE or A. Hitchcock was an American film director, actor, film producer, screenwriter, television director, television producer, film art director, film editor and writer. His child is called Pat Hitchcock.
Hitchcock is considered one of the most influential and acclaimed filmmakers in the history of cinema. He began his career in England and later moved to the United States, where he directed over 50 feature films, including classics such as Psycho, Rear Window, Vertigo and The Birds.
Hitchcock was known for his signature macabre style and his innovative use of camera angles, lighting and sound. His films often featured strong female characters who were both victims and heroes, and explored themes of guilt, obsession and the dark side of human nature.
In addition to his film career, Hitchcock also worked in television, producing and directing the popular series Alfred Hitchcock Presents. He received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, the American Film Institute's Life Achievement Award, and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II.
Hitchcock passed away in 1980 at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of iconic films that continue to influence and inspire filmmakers around the world.
Read more about Alfred Hitchcock 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 »
Roy Engel
Roy Engel (September 13, 1913 New York City-September 29, 1980 Burbank) otherwise known as Roy Engle or Roy Engels was an American actor and radio personality.
Engel attended the University of Michigan where he received a degree in drama. After graduation, he began his career in radio, working for stations such as WXYZ and WMAQ. He later transitioned to television and film, and appeared in over 200 productions over the course of his career. Engel is perhaps best known for his roles in the films The Man from Planet X, The Narrow Margin, and The Phenix City Story. He also made frequent appearances on television shows such as Perry Mason, Gunsmoke, and The Andy Griffith Show. In addition to his acting work, Engel served in the United States Navy during World War II. He passed away from heart failure at the age of 67.
Read more about Roy Engel on Wikipedia »
Bobby Van
Bobby Van (December 6, 1928 The Bronx-July 31, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as Robert Jack Stein or King was an American actor, singer, dancer and musician. He had two children, Peter Van and Taylor Van.
Bobby Van began his career in entertainment as a child performer, appearing in vaudeville shows and on Broadway. He made his film debut in the 1950 musical "Small Town Girl" and went on to appear in numerous musicals throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "Lost in the Stars," "The Affairs of Dobie Gillis," and "The Odd Couple."
Aside from his work in films and on stage, Van was also a popular television personality, making frequent appearances on shows such as "The Hollywood Palace" and "The Ed Sullivan Show." He also hosted his own variety show, "The Bobby Van Show," in the 1960s.
In addition to his performing career, Van was known for his philanthropic work, particularly for his efforts on behalf of children with disabilities. He was a close friend of President John F. Kennedy and was involved in the establishment of the Special Olympics.
Van died of brain cancer in 1980 at the age of 51, leaving behind a legacy as a talented performer and dedicated humanitarian.
Read more about Bobby Van on Wikipedia »
George Tobias
George Tobias (July 14, 1901 New York City-February 27, 1980 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
He began his career in the 1920s as a vaudeville performer and later transitioned to Broadway productions, including the original production of "Oklahoma!" in 1943. Tobias made over 80 film appearances throughout his career, often playing comedic or character roles. He is perhaps best known for his role as Abner Kravitz on the TV series "Bewitched" from 1964 to 1972. Tobias was also a civil rights activist and served on the board of the Hollywood Democratic Committee.
Read more about George Tobias on Wikipedia »
Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen (March 24, 1930 Beech Grove-November 7, 1980 Ciudad Juárez) also known as Terence Steven McQueen, Terrence Stephen McQueen, The King of Cool, Terence Stephen "Steve" McQueen, Steven McQueen, McQ, Mac, Bandito, Terence Stephen McQueen or Terence Steven "Steve" McQueen was an American actor and film producer. His children are called Chad McQueen and Terry McQueen.
McQueen was known for his iconic roles in films such as "The Great Escape," "Bullitt," and "The Towering Inferno." He was also an avid motorsports enthusiast, competing in races such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Baja 1000. McQueen's tough-guy persona and rebellious nature made him a cultural icon of the 1960s and 1970s. He was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 1979 and passed away the following year at the age of 50. Despite his short life, McQueen made a lasting impact on Hollywood and remains a beloved figure in popular culture.
Read more about Steve McQueen on Wikipedia »
Raoul Walsh
Raoul Walsh (March 11, 1887 New York City-December 31, 1980 Simi Valley) a.k.a. Raoul A. Walsh, R.A. Walsh, Albert Edward Walsh, Uncle or A.E. Walsh was an American film director, film producer, screenwriter and actor. His children are called Jackie Walsh and Bobbie Walsh.
Throughout his career, Walsh directed over 200 films in various genres, including westerns, gangster films, war films, and comedies. He was known for his innovative and dynamic style, often pushing the boundaries of what was deemed acceptable in Hollywood at the time. Some of his most notable films include "The Thief of Bagdad" (1924), "What Price Glory?" (1926), "The Roaring Twenties" (1939), and "White Heat" (1949).
Before becoming a director, Walsh was a successful actor in silent films. He began his acting career in 1914 and appeared in over 50 films before transitioning to directing in 1917. He continued to act in small roles throughout his directing career, often appearing in his own films.
Walsh was also known for his mentoring of young actors and filmmakers. He helped launch the careers of stars such as John Wayne, Errol Flynn, and Rock Hudson. He was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the film industry.
In addition to his work in film, Walsh was also a decorated veteran, having served in both World War I and World War II. He retired from filmmaking in the early 1960s and passed away in 1980 at the age of 93.
Read more about Raoul Walsh on Wikipedia »
Milton Parsons
Milton Parsons (May 19, 1904 Gloucester-May 15, 1980 Los Angeles County) also known as Ernest Milton Parsons or Milton Parson was an American actor.
Parsons began his career in the entertainment industry as a theater actor, but soon transitioned into film and television. He appeared in over 70 films throughout his career, mostly playing supporting roles. Some of his notable film credits include "Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein" (1948), "The Haunted Palace" (1963), and "Munster, Go Home!" (1966).
In addition to his film career, Parsons also had an extensive career in television. He appeared on many popular shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "Perry Mason," "The Beverly Hillbillies," and "Gilligan's Island." One of his most memorable roles was playing the character of the undertaker, Mr. Mole, on the television series "The Munsters."
Parsons continued to act until his death in 1980 at the age of 75. He was married to his wife, Marjorie, for over 50 years and had two children.
Read more about Milton Parsons on Wikipedia »
Duncan Renaldo
Duncan Renaldo (April 23, 1904 Oancea-September 3, 1980 Goleta) also known as Renault Renaldo Duncan, Duncan Renault, Renault Duncan, Duncan Rinaldo, Basil Couyanos, Vasile Dumitru V. Couyanos, Renaldo Duncan or Duncan Renaldo Renault was an American actor, writer and screenwriter.
He is best known for his portrayal of the Cisco Kid in the 1950s TV series, "The Cisco Kid". Born in Romania, he immigrated to the United States with his family as a child. Renaldo began his career as a stuntman and then moved on to acting, appearing in over 100 films throughout his career. He also wrote several screenplays and acted in theater productions. Renaldo was a founding member of the Latin American Citizens Committee in Hollywood and was an advocate for better representation of Latinos in the media. He passed away in 1980 from lung cancer at the age of 76.
Read more about Duncan Renaldo on Wikipedia »
Victor Sen Yung
Victor Sen Yung (October 18, 1915 San Francisco-November 1, 1980 North Hollywood) a.k.a. Sen Yung, Victor Young, Victor Sen-Yung, Victor Sen Young, Yáng Sēn, Sen Yew Cheung or Sen Young was an American actor and cook.
He was of Chinese descent and appeared in over 200 films, mainly in supporting roles. Yung is perhaps best known for his role as Hop Sing, the cook on the western television series Bonanza. He also appeared in the Charlie Chan film series as Jimmy Chan, the detective's second son.
In addition to his acting career, Yung was also an accomplished cook and author. He authored the cookbooks "The Great Wok Cookbook" and "Yung's Chinese Cooking". He even hosted his own cooking show on television called "Yung's Kitchen".
Despite his success in Hollywood and the culinary world, Yung faced discrimination and typecasting due to his ethnicity. He was often limited to playing stereotypical characters and struggled to find meaningful roles that didn't perpetuate racist stereotypes.
Yung died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1980 at the age of 65. His contributions to both acting and culinary arts have cemented his legacy as a pioneering figure in Asian American media representation.
Read more about Victor Sen Yung on Wikipedia »
Marc Connelly
Marc Connelly (December 13, 1890 McKeesport-December 21, 1980 New York City) a.k.a. Marcus Cook or Marcus Cook Connelly was an American screenwriter, actor, playwright, lyricist, film director, film producer and journalist.
Connelly was a highly acclaimed playwright and won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1930 for his play, "The Green Pastures." He was also a founding member of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of writers, critics, and actors who met regularly for lunch at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City in the 1920s and 1930s. In addition to his success in theater, Connelly became one of the first playwrights to successfully transition to writing for film, earning an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for the film "The Green Pastures" in which he also acted. He wrote and co-wrote numerous other films, among them "Captains Courageous," "Beloved Enemy," and "State Fair." Connelly was a respected figure in the literary and entertainment worlds, and his contributions to both fields continue to be recognized and celebrated to this day.
Read more about Marc Connelly on Wikipedia »
Elliott Nugent
Elliott Nugent (September 20, 1896 Dover-August 9, 1980 New York City) also known as Elliot Nugent was an American actor, screenwriter, film director and writer. He had one child, Barbara Nugent.
During his lifetime, Elliott Nugent directed more than 20 films and acted in over 40 movies. He began his career in the entertainment industry as a Broadway actor in the early 1920s and landed his debut film role in 1929 in the movie "The Hottentot". Nugent is known for directing popular films such as "The Male Animal" (1942) and "My Favorite Brunette" (1947), both of which starred the legendary comedian Bob Hope. Nugent also directed the highly successful musical "The Cat and the Fiddle" in 1934.
Aside from his career in film and theater, Nugent was also a writer and wrote several books, including the comedy "The Boys from Syracuse" (1938) and a memoir entitled "Events Leading Up to the Comedy". In addition, he contributed to the scripts of a number of Hollywood films.
Nugent was highly regarded for his work in Hollywood and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay in 1936 for the film "The Milky Way". He was also awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Read more about Elliott Nugent on Wikipedia »
Edmund Burns
Edmund Burns (September 27, 1892 Philadelphia-April 2, 1980 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Edward Burns, Ed Burns, Edward J. Burns or Eddie Burns was an American actor.
Throughout his career, Burns appeared in over 400 films, often playing small or uncredited roles. He started his career in vaudeville before transitioning to films in the 1910s. Burns is best known for his work with the Three Stooges, appearing in over 35 of their films. He also appeared in several Laurel and Hardy films, including "The Music Box" and "Sons of the Desert." Later in his career, Burns worked as a talent agent, representing actors such as Tony Curtis and Jayne Mansfield. He passed away at the age of 87 in Los Angeles.
Read more about Edmund Burns on Wikipedia »
Charles Tannen
Charles Tannen (October 22, 1915 New York City-December 28, 1980 San Bernardino) also known as Chas. Tannen, Conductor or Charles David Tannen was an American actor, voice actor and screenwriter.
He began his career in the 1930s as a radio actor, and quickly transitioned to film and television. Tannen appeared in over 140 films and numerous television shows, including several episodes of The Twilight Zone, The Andy Griffith Show, and Gunsmoke. He was also a prominent voice actor, lending his voice to several Disney animated films, including Sleeping Beauty and Lady and the Tramp. Tannen was a prolific screenwriter, contributing to several films and television shows. He later taught acting in San Bernardino, California.
Read more about Charles Tannen on Wikipedia »
Fred Beir
Fred Beir (September 21, 1927 Niagara Falls-June 3, 1980 Hollywood) otherwise known as Frederick Beir, Fredrick Beir or Frederick Edwin Beir was an American actor. He had one child, Amanda Tate Beir.
Beir began his acting career in theater productions in the 1950s in New York City. He later transitioned to television, where he appeared in numerous shows such as "The Twilight Zone", "Perry Mason", and "Star Trek". Beir was also well-known for his role as Dr. Ray Caldwell in the medical drama "Medical Center". In addition to acting, he also worked as a voice actor, lending his voice to various radio and TV commercials. Unfortunately, Beir died at the age of 52, from lung cancer in Hollywood, California.
Read more about Fred Beir on Wikipedia »
Jerry Priddy
Jerry Priddy (November 9, 1919 Los Angeles-March 3, 1980 North Hollywood) a.k.a. Gerald Edward Priddy was an American baseball player and actor.
He played as a second baseman in Major League Baseball from 1941 to 1953 and was a member of the 1947 American League champion New York Yankees team. After retiring from baseball, Priddy became an actor, appearing in several films and television shows during the 1950s and 1960s. He also worked as a coach for various minor league baseball teams in the 1960s. Priddy was known for his aggressive playing style and his ability to turn double plays. He was inducted into the Pacific Coast League Hall of Fame in 2003.
Read more about Jerry Priddy on Wikipedia »
Frank McDonald
Frank McDonald (November 9, 1899 Baltimore-March 8, 1980 Oxnard) a.k.a. Frank MacDonald or Bill Raynor was an American film director, television director, railroad worker, theatrical producer, theatre director and actor.
During his early years, Frank McDonald worked for the railroad, but eventually transitioned into show business. He appeared in several films as an actor, but found his true calling behind the camera as a director. He directed over 120 films in his career, including westerns, musicals, and crime dramas. MacDonald also worked extensively in television, directing episodes of popular shows such as "Gunsmoke" and "Hawaii Five-O." Beyond his work in film and television, MacDonald was also a successful theatrical producer and theatre director. He passed away in Oxnard, California in 1980 at the age of 80.
Read more about Frank McDonald on Wikipedia »
Dan White
Dan White (March 25, 1908 Falmouth, Florida-July 7, 1980 Tampa) a.k.a. Dan M. White, Daniel M. White or Daniel White was an American actor. His children are called June Larue White and Donald Curtis White.
Dan White began his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in minor roles in various films such as "The Return of Frank James" and "Jesse James at Bay". He went on to appear in over 100 movies throughout his career, often playing supporting roles in Westerns and adventure films. White is perhaps best known for his work on television, appearing in numerous popular shows such as "The Lone Ranger", "Gunsmoke", and "Bonanza". Despite his prolific career, White never achieved major star status but remained a well-respected character actor. In addition to acting, White also worked as a boxing promoter in the early 1950s. He retired from acting in the early 1970s and passed away in 1980 at the age of 72.
Read more about Dan White on Wikipedia »
Chester Lauck
Chester Lauck (February 9, 1902 Arkansas-February 21, 1980 Seal Beach) a.k.a. Chester "Chet" Lauck, Chet, Lum, Chester H. Lauck or Harris Chester "Chet" Lauck was an American actor.
Chester Lauck was best known for creating and portraying the character of "Lum" Edwards in the popular American radio program, "Lum and Abner". He co-starred with his friend and radio partner Norris Goff who played "Abner". The duo met while working as salesmen in Arkansas, and they began imitating the local townspeople and politicians for fun during their downtime. Their comedic skits soon became popular, and the pair eventually moved to Chicago to pursue a career in radio. "Lum and Abner" aired from 1931 to 1954, and the show's success led to several films and television shows featuring the characters. In addition to his work as an actor and writer, Lauck was also a skilled pilot and owned several planes. He passed away in 1980 at the age of 78.
Read more about Chester Lauck on Wikipedia »
Erle C. Kenton
Erle C. Kenton (August 1, 1896 Norboro-January 28, 1980 Glendale) a.k.a. Erle Cauthorn Kenton, Erle Kenton, Earle Kenton, Earle C. Kenton, Earl Kenton or Earl C. Kenton was an American film director and actor.
Erle C. Kenton began his career in Hollywood in the silent era as an actor, but later transitioned to directing during the 1930s. He directed a variety of films, including horror films such as "House of Frankenstein" and "Island of Lost Souls". Kenton also directed comedies, dramas, and Westerns throughout his career. In addition to his work as a director, Kenton was also known for his innovative use of special effects in his films. He retired from directing in the 1950s and passed away in 1980 at the age of 83.
Read more about Erle C. Kenton on Wikipedia »
Leonard Strong
Leonard Strong (August 12, 1908 Salt Lake City-January 23, 1980 Glendale) also known as Leonard Clarence Strong was an American actor. He had two children, Judith Strong and M. Leonard Strong.
Leonard Strong appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career. He was best known for his role as the villainous Dr. No's assistant, Professor Dent, in the first James Bond film, "Dr. No" (1962). Prior to his acting career, Strong studied engineering at the University of Utah and later worked as a surveyor for the State of Utah. He then moved to New York City to pursue acting on Broadway before making his way to Hollywood. In addition to acting, Strong was also a pilot and served as a flight instructor during World War II. He passed away at the age of 71 from complications related to lung cancer.
Read more about Leonard Strong on Wikipedia »
Harlan Warde
Harlan Warde (November 6, 1917 Los Angeles-March 13, 1980 Los Angeles County) otherwise known as Harlan Ward or Harlan Ward Lifkin was an American actor and character actor.
Warde began his acting career in the 1940s, performing in various stage productions and radio dramas. He later transitioned to television and film, appearing in over 200 productions throughout his career. Some of his most notable roles include Sheriff Madden in the TV series "Tombstone Territory" and Dr. Arnold Huxley in the film "The Andromeda Strain." Warde was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous animated series and films such as "Scooby-Doo" and "The Flintstones." In addition to his acting work, Warde was also a well-respected acting coach, teaching at the famed Pasadena Playhouse. He passed away in 1980 at the age of 62 due to heart failure.
Read more about Harlan Warde on Wikipedia »
Lawrence Eugene Williams
Lawrence Eugene Williams (May 10, 1935 New Orleans-January 7, 1980 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Lawrence E. Williams, Williams, Larry or Lawrence Eugene "Larry" Williams was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, record producer, actor and film score composer.
He was a pioneering figure in the rock and roll genre, and wrote and recorded several hits such as "Bony Moronie" and "Dizzy Miss Lizzy". Williams' songs were covered by many popular musicians, including The Beatles, who covered "Dizzy Miss Lizzy" on their album "Help!" in 1965. Williams was also known for his energetic live performances and his flamboyant personality. Despite his success, Williams struggled with drug addiction and financial issues throughout his life. He died at the age of 44 from a gunshot wound, which was ruled a suicide although some speculate it was accidental. Despite his untimely death, Williams' music has continued to inspire and influence generations of musicians.
Read more about Lawrence Eugene Williams on Wikipedia »
Paul Langton
Paul Langton (April 17, 1913 Salt Lake City-April 15, 1980 Burbank) was an American actor.
He was best known for his work in more than 50 films and television shows. Langton started his acting career in the early 1940s and made his film debut in 1942 with "Eagle Squadron". He went on to appear in several notable films including "My Favorite Brunette" (1947), "The Big Clock" (1948), and "The Incredible Shrinking Man" (1957).
He also worked in television and appeared in popular shows like "Perry Mason", "Bonanza", and "The Twilight Zone". Langton was active in the entertainment industry until his death in 1980 at the age of 66.
Read more about Paul Langton on Wikipedia »
Henry Levin
Henry Levin (June 5, 1909 Trenton-May 1, 1980 United States of America) was an American film director, theatre director and actor.
He began his career as a theatre director on Broadway before transitioning to film direction in the 1940s. Some of his most notable films include "Jolson Sings Again" (1949), "The President's Lady" (1953), and "The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm" (1962).
Levin was also a respected educator, teaching film direction at the University of Southern California and serving as the founding department chair of the film program at Brandeis University. Additionally, he authored several books on film and directed many television series, including "The Twilight Zone" and "The Fugitive."
Throughout his career, Levin was known for his ability to bring emotion and realism to his projects, and he helped to establish many young actors and actresses in the film industry.
Read more about Henry Levin on Wikipedia »
Ivan Triesault
Ivan Triesault (July 13, 1898 Tallinn-January 3, 1980 Los Angeles) also known as Johann Constantin Treisalt, Ivan Tresault or Ivan Trisault was an American actor and character actor.
Born in Estonia, Triesault began his acting career in Germany before immigrating to the United States in 1937. He is best known for his roles in films such as "Notorious" (1946) and "The Amazing Transparent Man" (1960), as well as his appearances on television shows like "The Twilight Zone" and "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." Triesault was a prolific character actor, often playing villains, and he appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career. He passed away in 1980 in Los Angeles.
Read more about Ivan Triesault on Wikipedia »
Bill Lee
Bill Lee (August 21, 1916 Johnson-November 15, 1980 Los Angeles) otherwise known as The Mellomen was an American singer, actor, voice actor and playback singer.
He was born in Johnson, Nebraska and grew up in San Francisco, California. Lee started his music career as a member of the San Francisco Opera and later became a member of The Mellomen, a popular vocal quartet that appeared on various radio and television shows from the 1940s to the 1960s. The Mellomen also provided backing vocals for such legends as Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Bing Crosby.
Lee was also known for his voice acting work, lending his voice to numerous Disney animated films, including the iconic character of Mowgli in The Jungle Book. He also worked on Lady and the Tramp, Sleeping Beauty, and Peter Pan, among others.
In addition to his music and voice work, Lee also appeared in several films and television shows, including the role of the barkeep in the famous western film, High Noon. Lee passed away from a heart attack in 1980, aged 64.
Read more about Bill Lee on Wikipedia »