American movie stars died in 1981
Here are 50 famous actors from United States of America died in 1981:
William Holden
William Holden (April 17, 1918 O'Fallon-November 12, 1981 Santa Monica) a.k.a. William Franklin Beedle Jr., The Golden Boy, Bill Holden, Bill, Golden Holden or William Franklin Beedle, Jr. was an American actor and conservationist. He had four children, Scott Porter Holden, Peter Westfield Holden, Virginia Holden and Arlene Holden.
Holden made his debut in Hollywood in the 1930s and quickly became a successful leading man, known for his charm and good looks. Some of his most notable films include "Sunset Boulevard," "Stalag 17," and "The Bridge on the River Kwai," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Apart from his successful acting career, Holden was also an active conservationist and dedicated plenty of his time and resources to wildlife preservation. He founded the Mount Kenya Game Ranch in Africa and was a member of several conservation organizations such as the African Wildlife Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund.
Holden's personal life was somewhat tumultuous, with several failed marriages and struggles with alcoholism. However, he remained a beloved figure in Hollywood and his contributions to both cinema and conservation continue to be remembered and celebrated.
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George Walsh
George Walsh (March 16, 1889 New York City-June 13, 1981 Pomona) a.k.a. Walsh was an American actor. He had one child, Patricia Walsh Noonan.
George Walsh began his career in the film industry as a stuntman, working for his brother, director Raoul Walsh. After appearing in several silent films during the 1910s and 1920s, he transitioned into leading roles in the 1930s. One of his most notable performances was in the 1932 film "Virtue," which co-starred Carole Lombard.
In addition to acting, Walsh also directed several films, including "The Loves of Carmen" (1927) and "The Big Trail" (1930), which helped launch the career of John Wayne.
After retiring from acting in the 1950s, Walsh focused on his business interests, which included owning a construction company and a brokerage firm. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 92.
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Matthew Beard
Matthew Beard (January 1, 1925 Los Angeles-January 8, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Matthew Beard Jr., Junior, Hercules, Matthew 'Stymie' Beard, Jr., Stymie, Matthew Beard, Jr., Stymie Beard or Our Gang was an American actor and child actor.
Matthew Beard was best known for his role as "Stymie" in the popular comedy series "Our Gang" (also known as "The Little Rascals") from 1930-1935. He appeared in a total of 76 short films during his time with the series.
After "Our Gang", Beard continued acting and appeared in several films including "Captain January" (1936), "The Lone Ranger Rides Again" (1939) and "Gone With the Wind" (1939). However, his acting career was interrupted when he was drafted into the Army during World War II.
After the war, Beard struggled to make a successful return to acting and turned to other jobs such as working as a limousine driver for celebrities. He made a brief return to acting in the 1970s with appearances in TV shows such as "Sanford and Son" and "Good Times."
Beard passed away in 1981 at the age of 56 due to a stroke. Despite his early success in show business, he struggled with financial difficulties throughout his life and was buried in an unmarked grave until a memorial marker was added in 1995.
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Kendall McComas
Kendall McComas (October 29, 1916 Holton-October 15, 1981 Lake Isabella) was an American actor, child actor and engineer.
After a brief stint in Hollywood as a child actor, Kendall McComas shifted his focus to engineering, eventually becoming a successful aerospace engineer. However, he continued to work in the film industry as a consultant and technical advisor, using his engineering expertise to ensure accuracy in movies and TV shows featuring aviation and space travel. Later in life, he also returned to acting, appearing in small roles in films such as "The Right Stuff" and TV shows like "The Waltons." Beyond his professional achievements, McComas was known for his philanthropic work and dedication to improving the lives of those in his community.
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Kermit Murdock
Kermit Murdock (March 20, 1908 Pittsburgh-February 11, 1981 Tenafly) was an American actor and voice actor.
Murdock was best known for his work in the fields of theater, television, and film. He appeared in various Broadway shows and Off-Broadway productions throughout his career. Some of his notable credits in theater include the original production of Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible" and the Broadway productions of Tennessee Williams' "Summer and Smoke" and "The Glass Menagerie".
In addition to his work on stage, Murdock also had a prolific career in film and television. He played small roles in several classic movies such as "Sweet Smell of Success," "North by Northwest," and "Rachel, Rachel." He also had recurring roles on popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Dark Shadows."
As a voice actor, Murdock lent his distinctive voice to many animated programs, commercials, and documentaries. He provided the voice for several characters on the popular animated series, "The Transformers."
Overall, Kermit Murdock's career spanned several decades and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
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Glenn Anders
Glenn Anders (September 1, 1889 Los Angeles-October 26, 1981 Englewood) was an American actor.
He started his acting career on stage in the 1920s, appearing in Broadway productions such as "The Same Old Thing" and "The Addams Family". He eventually transitioned to film, and made his screen debut in the 1932 film "The Dark Mirror". Anders went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "The Devil and Daniel Webster" and "The Lady from Shanghai". In addition to his acting career, Anders was also a successful writer, penning several books including a collection of short stories entitled "Innocent Arch". He continued acting in films and on television until his retirement in the 1970s.
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Hank Henry
Hank Henry (July 9, 1906 New York City-March 31, 1981 Las Vegas-Paradise, NV Metropolitan Statistical Area) also known as Henry Rosenthal was an American actor.
He began his career in the 1920s as a vaudeville performer, and he transitioned to filmmaking in the 1930s. Throughout his career, Hank played roles in over 100 movies, appearing in both comedic and dramatic roles. He is best known for his roles in films such as "Queen of Burlesque" (1946), "The Fabulous Texan" (1947), and "The Babe Ruth Story" (1948). Hank was also a regular guest star on television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. Additionally, he made appearances on popular game shows of that era, such as "What's My Line?" and "To Tell the Truth." Outside of show business, Hank was an avid fan of horse racing and owned several racehorses throughout his life.
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Yuki Shimoda
Yuki Shimoda (August 10, 1921 Sacramento-May 21, 1981 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Yuki Shimado, Yukio Shimoda or Yuki Shimodo was an American actor and dancer.
He was born to Japanese immigrants and grew up in California where he attended high school before studying dance at the University of California, Los Angeles. During World War II, Shimoda was interned along with his family at the Tule Lake War Relocation Center in California. After the war, he resumed his career as a dancer and eventually transitioned to acting on stage and screen. Shimoda appeared in numerous television shows and films including "Barney Miller," "M*A*S*H," and "The Karate Kid Part II." He was also a founding member of the East West Players, an Asian American theater group. Shimoda died of lung cancer in 1981 at the age of 59.
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Hoagy Carmichael
Hoagy Carmichael (November 22, 1899 Bloomington-December 27, 1981 Rancho Mirage) a.k.a. Hoagland Howard Carmichael, Howard Hoagland Carmichael, Hoagy Charmichael or Howard Hoagland "Hoagy" Carmichael was an American actor, singer, composer, bandleader, pianist, songwriter and lawyer. He had two children, Hoagy Bix Carmichael and Randy Carmichael.
He is regarded as one of America's most successful songwriters, composing hits such as "Stardust" and "Georgia on My Mind." His music has been covered by numerous artists, including Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, and Ella Fitzgerald. Carmichael also appeared in over a dozen films, often playing the role of a pianist or musician. In addition to his career in the entertainment industry, he also worked as a lawyer in Indiana. Carmichael was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1971 and the Indiana Music Hall of Fame in 1987.
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Jack Albertson
Jack Albertson (June 16, 1907 Malden-November 25, 1981 Hollywood) also known as Jonathen George Albertson, Harold Albertson or Jackie Alberts was an American actor, comedian, dancer, musician, singer, radio personality, vaudeville performer and voice actor. His child is called Maura Dhu Studi.
Jack Albertson started his career in entertainment in the 1930s as a vaudeville performer before transitioning to radio and eventually television and film. He is perhaps best known for his role as Grandpa Joe in the 1971 film adaptation of "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory". Albertson also won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the 1968 film "The Subject Was Roses". He was a prolific stage performer as well, starring in productions such as "The Sunshine Boys" and "The Odd Couple". In addition to his successful entertainment career, Albertson was a dedicated philanthropist and activist, particularly in the realm of cystic fibrosis research.
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Herb Voland
Herb Voland (October 2, 1918 New Rochelle-April 26, 1981 Riverside) a.k.a. Herbert Volland, Herbert Maurice Voland or Herbert Voland was an American actor. His child is called Mark Voland.
Herb Voland had a career that spanned over three decades and included numerous roles on stage, television, and film. He is best known for his role as General Crandell Clayton on the TV sitcom "MASH" and as Ward Cleaver's boss, Mr. Haskell, on "Leave It to Beaver".
Voland also appeared in many films, including "Airplane!" and "The Love God?". On stage, he performed in many Broadway productions, including "Destry Rides Again" and "The Addams Family".
Before beginning his acting career, Herb Voland worked as an announcer and writer for various radio shows. He later served in the U.S. Army during World War II before returning to his passion for acting after the war ended.
Voland passed away in 1981 at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances in both comedy and drama.
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Melvyn Douglas
Melvyn Douglas (April 5, 1901 Macon-August 4, 1981 New York City) also known as Melvyn Edouard Hesselberg was an American actor. His children are called Melvyn Gregory Hesselberg, Peter Gahagan Douglas and Mary Helen Douglas.
Douglas began his career as a theater actor, performing on Broadway stages in the 1920s and 1930s. He appeared in his first film in 1931 and went on to have a successful career in Hollywood, starring in over 90 films throughout his career. Some of his notable film credits include "Ninotchka," "Hud," and "Being There."
In addition to his successful career in film, Douglas was also an accomplished television actor, appearing in shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Streets of San Francisco." He won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his performances in "Hud" and "Being There," and was also a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Douglas was known for his advocacy of liberal political causes and was a strong supporter of the Civil Rights Movement. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 80.
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Robert Montgomery
Robert Montgomery (May 21, 1904 Beacon-September 27, 1981 New York City) also known as Henry Montgomery Jr., Bob, Comdr. Robert Montgomery U.S.N.R. or Robert Montgomery Comdr. U.S.N.R. was an American actor, television producer and film director. He had three children, Elizabeth Montgomery, Martha Bryan Montgomery and Robert Montgomery Jr..
After serving in the Navy during WWII, Montgomery became a successful actor, landing leading roles in films like "Piccadilly Jim" and "Here Comes Mr. Jordan". He also appeared in several popular TV shows, including "Robert Montgomery Presents," which he also produced. Montgomery was known for his suave, debonair persona both on and off screen, and he was often compared to fellow actors Cary Grant and David Niven. In addition to his work in entertainment, Montgomery was also an active supporter of the Republican Party and appeared as a speaker at the 1952 Republican National Convention. Later in life, he became a vocal advocate for cancer research after his daughter, actress Elizabeth Montgomery, died of the disease in 1995.
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Jim Davis
Jim Davis (August 26, 1909 Edgerton-April 26, 1981 Northridge) a.k.a. Marlin Davis, James Davis or Marlin Jim Davis was an American actor and voice actor. He had one child, Tara Diane Davis.
Jim Davis began his career in the film industry in the 1940s, appearing in supporting roles in several western movies. He eventually landed the lead role in the 1950s TV series "Stories of the Century." Davis also had a successful career as a voice actor, lending his voice to characters in popular animated TV shows such as "The Flintstones," "Magilla Gorilla," and "Scooby-Doo, Where are You!" In addition to his work in entertainment, Davis was a successful businessman and owned several restaurants in California. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 71.
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George Jessel
George Jessel (April 3, 1898 The Bronx-May 23, 1981 Los Angeles) a.k.a. George Albert Jessel, George E. Jessel, "Georgie" Jessel, Toastmaster General of the United States or Georgie was an American comedian, singer, actor, film producer, screenwriter, songwriter and master of ceremonies. He had two children, Jerilyn Jessel and Charris Carla Jessel.
Jessel began his career in vaudeville in the 1920s and went on to perform in several Broadway shows. He also appeared in over 20 films, including "Lucky Boy" (1928) and "The Great Dictator" (1940). Jessel was known for his wit and charm as a emcee and was often called upon to host events such as the Academy Awards and the Friars Club Roasts.
In addition to his entertainment career, Jessel was also involved in politics and served as the honorary mayor of Beverly Hills in the 1950s. He was a staunch supporter of Israel and was honored with the title of "Ambassador of the Peace" by the United Nations for his efforts in aiding in the sale of Israel Bonds.
Jessel passed away in 1981 at the age of 83 from a heart attack. He is remembered as an iconic figure in American entertainment, and his contributions as a comedian and emcee continue to influence the industry to this day.
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Stanley Clements
Stanley Clements (July 16, 1926 Long Island-October 16, 1981 Pasadena) also known as Stanislaw Klimowicz or Stash was an American actor and comedian. He had one child, Sylvester Clements.
Stanley Clements began his career as a child actor in the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in films such as "Miss Annie Rooney" (1942) and "Buck Privates Come Home" (1947). He rose to fame in the 1950s as part of the comedy team "The Bowery Boys", replacing Leo Gorcey as the leader of the group. Clements appeared in over 40 films as part of "The Bowery Boys" and was known for his wisecracking persona and comedic timing. In addition to acting, he also worked as a stuntman in several of his films. After "The Bowery Boys" series ended in 1958, Clements continued to act in films and television shows, including "The Dick Van Dyke Show" and "The Monkees". He passed away in 1981 at the age of 55 due to complications from a stroke.
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Allyn Joslyn
Allyn Joslyn (July 21, 1901 Milford-January 21, 1981 Woodland Hills) also known as Allen Joslyn, Allyn Joslyn Morgan or Allyn Morgan Joslyn was an American actor.
He began his career in theater and appeared in over 100 Broadway productions before transitioning to film and television. Joslyn is best known for his roles in classic films such as "The Asphalt Jungle", "The Lemon Drop Kid", and "Destination Tokyo". He was often cast as a comedic actor and appeared in several films alongside fellow comedians such as Bob Hope and Abbott and Costello. In addition to his film work, Joslyn had a successful television career appearing in popular shows such as "Perry Mason", "The Jack Benny Program", and "The Twilight Zone". He continued to act until his death in 1981.
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Ross Martin
Ross Martin (March 22, 1920 Horodok-July 3, 1981 Ramona) also known as Martin Rosenblatt was an American actor. His children are called Phyllis Martin, Rebecca Martin and George Martin.
Ross Martin was best known for his roles in various popular TV shows, such as "The Wild Wild West" where he played the character of Artemus Gordon, and "Mr. Lucky" as Andamo. He also appeared in several films including "Experiment in Terror" and "The Great White Hope". Martin had a successful career in both television and film, and was highly regarded for his acting abilities.
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Frank de Kova
Frank de Kova (March 17, 1910 New York City-October 15, 1981 Sepulveda) also known as Frank deKova or Frank de Kova was an American actor and teacher.
He graduated from the New York University and began his career in the entertainment industry as a stage actor before transitioning to television and film. In the early 1950s, he appeared in several films including "Cry Vengeance" and "The Wild One." De Kova is best known for his role as Chief Wild Eagle in the popular television series, "F Troop." He appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career, including "Gunsmoke," "Bonanza," and "Hawaii Five-O." De Kova was also a drama professor at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
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Russell Hayden
Russell Hayden (June 12, 1912 Chico-June 9, 1981 Palm Springs) also known as Pate Lucid, R.M. Hayden, Russ 'Lucky' Hayden, Russell 'Lucky' Hayden, Russ Hayden, Lucky, Hayden Michael Lucid, Russell "Lucky" Hayden, Hayden Michael "Pate" Lucid or Rusell 'Lucky' Haden was an American actor, businessperson, film director, film producer, screenwriter and television producer. He had one child, Sandra Hayden.
Russell Hayden was born in Chico, California, in 1912. He started his career in Hollywood in the 1930s and appeared in more than 40 films, including several Westerns. Some of his most notable works include "The Three Mesquiteers" and "Hop-Along Cassidy" series.
In addition to acting, Hayden also produced and directed several films, including "The Arizona Cowboy" and "The Marshal of Mesa City". He was also a successful businessman, owning and managing several ranches in California and Nevada.
During World War II, Russell Hayden served in the United States Army Air Forces and was a captain by the war's end. After the war, he continued his acting career and appeared in several television shows, including "The Lone Ranger" and "The Adventures of Kit Carson".
Hayden was married to Lillian Porter from 1939 until her death in 1975. They had one daughter, Sandra Hayden. He passed away in 1981 in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 68.
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Frank McHugh
Frank McHugh (May 23, 1898 Homestead-September 11, 1981 Greenwich) also known as Francis Curray McHugh was an American actor and singer.
He started his career on stage and appeared in over 170 films throughout his career. McHugh was known for his roles in classic Hollywood films such as "Going My Way" (1944), "The Roaring Twenties" (1939), and "Three Men on a Horse" (1936). He often played comedic roles and was known for his quick wit and timing. McHugh also had a successful singing career and recorded several popular songs. He was married to Dorothy Spencer, an Academy Award-winning film editor, and they had two children together. McHugh passed away at the age of 83 in Greenwich, Connecticut.
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Philo McCullough
Philo McCullough (June 16, 1893 San Bernardino-June 5, 1981 Burbank) also known as P.H. McCullough, Philo McCollough, Philip McCullough or P.M. McCullough was an American actor.
Philo McCullough was born on June 16, 1893, in San Bernardino, California. He began his acting career in silent films in the 1910s, appearing in over 250 films throughout his career. McCullough was known for his versatility, often playing both heroic and villainous characters. He continued to work in films during the transition to sound, appearing in films like the classic horror film "Dracula" in 1931. In addition to acting, McCullough was also a director and writer, occasionally contributing to the screenplays of the films he appeared in. He passed away on June 5, 1981, in Burbank, California, at the age of 87.
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Morgan Conway
Morgan Conway (March 17, 1903 Livingston-November 16, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Sydney Conway was an American actor. His child is called Ben Conway.
Morgan Conway had a successful career in Hollywood during the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in over 70 films. He gained popularity for his role as Dick Tracy in the 1945 film "Dick Tracy" and its sequel, "Dick Tracy vs. Cueball."
Outside of acting, Conway also served in World War II as a captain in the United States Army Air Corps. After his military service, he transitioned into television work and appeared on popular shows such as "Perry Mason" and "The Lone Ranger."
Conway was married to actress Virginia Christine for over 40 years until his death in 1981 from cancer. He was 78 years old.
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Lynton Brent
Lynton Brent (August 2, 1897 Chicago-July 12, 1981 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Lynton Wright Brent, L.W. Brent or Lynton W. Brent was an American actor, artist, architect and writer.
He appeared in over 240 films between 1928 and 1950, often in small or uncredited roles. Brent started his acting career in silent films and made a successful transition to talkies. He appeared in films such as "The Great Dictator," "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," and "The Adventures of Robin Hood." Brent was also a skilled artist, specializing in watercolor and drawing. He worked as an architect in the 1920s and 1930s, designing homes and buildings in the Los Angeles area. Brent wrote a popular autobiography, "L. W. Brent: An Actor's Life."
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Robert Kellard
Robert Kellard (April 23, 1915 California-January 13, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Robert Stevens, Robert Stephens or Bob Kellard was an American actor.
He appeared in over 50 films and television shows throughout his career. Kellard was born in California and began his acting career in the early 1940s. He appeared in notable films such as "The Big Sleep" (1946), "Out of the Past" (1947), and "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1946). Kellard also had roles in popular television shows such as "Gunsmoke," "The Lone Ranger," and "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet." He passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 65.
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Pat Conway
Pat Conway (January 9, 1931 Los Angeles-April 24, 1981 Santa Barbara County) a.k.a. Patrick Douglas Conway or Patrick Conway was an American actor.
Conway is best known for his role as Sheriff Clay Hollister in the popular Western television series, "Tombstone Territory". Prior to his acting career, he served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. After his time in the military, Conway attended the Pasadena Playhouse where he studied acting. In addition to his role on "Tombstone Territory", he appeared in numerous other television shows including "Gunsmoke", "The Rifleman", and "Bonanza". He also had roles in films such as "Marine's Wife" and "Fort Dobbs". In his personal life, Conway was married to actress Beverly Garland from 1956 until his death in 1981.
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John Cecil Holm
John Cecil Holm (November 4, 1904 Philadelphia-October 24, 1981 Westerly) also known as John Cecil Holme or Holm was an American actor, playwright and theatre director.
Holm began his career as an actor, performing in various Broadway productions throughout the 1920s and 1930s. He later transitioned into writing plays, and his most successful work was the Broadway production "Three Men on a Horse," which opened in 1935 and ran for over 800 performances.
Holm also directed several plays on Broadway, including the original production of "Father of the Bride" in 1949. In addition to his work in theatre, he acted in several films, including "The Friends of Eddie Coyle" (1973) and "The Front Page" (1931).
Throughout his career, Holm struggled with alcoholism and depression. He ultimately retired from the entertainment industry and moved to a small town in Rhode Island, where he lived until his death in 1981.
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Brad Johnson
Brad Johnson (July 23, 1924 Marysville-April 4, 1981 Burbank) also known as Elmer Bradley Johnson was an American actor and real estate broker.
He is best known for his role as Deputy Lofty Craig in the popular western series, "The Lone Ranger" from 1949-1952. Johnson also appeared in several films during his career, including "Whirlwind" (1951) and "Invaders from Mars" (1953). In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Johnson was also a successful real estate broker in Southern California, with a particular focus on the San Fernando Valley. He died at the age of 56 from a heart attack in his home in Burbank.
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Nicolas de Gunzburg
Nicolas de Gunzburg (December 12, 1904 Paris-February 20, 1981 New York) was an American writer, businessperson and actor.
Born into a wealthy Russian-Jewish family, Nicolas de Gunzburg was educated at the Sorbonne in Paris and at Oxford University in England. He later moved to New York City and became a prominent figure in high society, known for his extravagant parties and stylish wardrobe. De Gunzburg also worked in the fashion industry, serving as a consultant for designers such as Yves Saint Laurent and Hubert de Givenchy. He contributed articles to various publications, including Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and The New Yorker. Additionally, de Gunzburg had a brief career as an actor, appearing in several films in the 1940s and 1950s. Despite his privileged upbringing and glamorous lifestyle, de Gunzburg led a complicated personal life and struggled with addiction. He died in 1981 at the age of 76.
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Ben Andrews
Ben Andrews (May 16, 1942 Ohio-May 13, 1981 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
Starting his career in the late 1960s, Ben Andrews appeared in several movies and TV shows throughout the 70s. He is best known for his performances in "Midnight Express" (1978), "Murder By Decree" (1979) and "Lunch Wagon" (1981). Apart from movies, he also had guest appearances on iconic TV shows of that era including "The Six Million Dollar Man" and "Baretta". Unfortunately, Andrews passed away in 1981, just three days shy of his 39th birthday, due to complications from pneumonia.
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David Guion
David Guion (September 30, 1967 Ballinger-October 17, 1981) was an American screenwriter and actor.
He began his career writing for television shows such as "The Love Boat" and "Falcon Crest." Guion then went on to write several feature films, including "The Expendables" and "Dinner for Schmucks." In addition to his writing work, he also had a few small acting roles in films such as "The House Bunny" and "Ride Along 2." Unfortunately, Guion passed away at the age of 14 in a car accident. His work continues to be celebrated and honored in the entertainment industry.
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Richard Boone
Richard Boone (June 18, 1917 Los Angeles-January 10, 1981 St. Augustine) also known as Richard Allen Boone or Dick was an American actor, television director, professional boxer, painter, laborer and soldier. He had one child, Peter Boone.
Boone began his career in acting in the 1940s in New York City, taking on small roles in Broadway productions before transitioning to film and television. He is best known for his lead role in the television series "Have Gun - Will Travel" from 1957 to 1963, where he played the character Paladin. Boone also appeared in numerous films, including "The Tall T" (1957), "Rio Conchos" (1964), and "Big Jake" (1971). In addition to his acting career, Boone was also an accomplished painter, with his works being displayed in galleries across the United States. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the Navy, and was awarded the Bronze Star for his service. Boone passed away in 1981 at the age of 63 from throat cancer.
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John Warburton
John Warburton (June 18, 1899 Maghull-October 27, 1981 Sherman Oaks) was an American actor.
Born in Maghull, Liverpool, England, Warburton served in the Royal Air Force during World War I before emigrating to the United States in the early 1920s. He started his acting career in theater and went on to appear in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Warburton had a memorable role in the film "Charlie Chan at the Opera" (1936) and appeared on the TV series "The Lone Ranger" (1949–1956). He also performed in radio dramas, including "The Shadow," and worked as a voice actor in animation, most notably as the voice of the Mad Hatter in Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" (1951). Warburton retired from acting in the mid-1960s and passed away in Sherman Oaks at the age of 82.
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Arthur O'Connell
Arthur O'Connell (March 29, 1908 New York City-May 18, 1981 Woodland Hills) was an American actor, vaudeville performer and spokesperson.
O'Connell was born in New York City in 1908 and began his career in show business as a vaudeville performer. He later transitioned to acting and made his Broadway debut in 1932 in the play "The Warriors." O'Connell went on to appear in more than 20 Broadway productions over the course of his career.
In the 1950s, O'Connell began appearing in films and quickly made a name for himself as a character actor, often playing gentle, fatherly figures. Some of his most memorable film roles include his performance as a priest in the classic film "The Nun's Story" (1959) and as the father in the coming-of-age drama "The Great Impostor" (1961).
O'Connell was also a well-known spokesperson, appearing in commercials for a variety of products, including Geritol and General Electric. He was known for his warm, friendly voice and his ability to connect with audiences.
O'Connell passed away in 1981 at the age of 73 in Woodland Hills, California. He is remembered as a talented performer and beloved character actor in Hollywood.
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Richard Hale
Richard Hale (November 16, 1892 Rogersville-May 18, 1981 Northridge) also known as James Richards Hale was an American actor, opera singer and singer.
He was born in Tennessee and attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. He made his Broadway debut in 1916 and appeared in over 50 plays throughout his career. Hale also acted in films and television shows, including "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Twilight Zone." He was also a successful opera singer and sang with the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Opera. In addition to acting and singing, Hale was also a composer and wrote several songs. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 88.
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Keefe Brasselle
Keefe Brasselle (February 7, 1923 Elyria-July 7, 1981 Downey) otherwise known as John Brasselli or Henry Keefe Brasselle was an American actor, television producer, author and businessperson. His children are called Melissa Brasselle, Rosana Brasselle and Erin Keefe Brasselle.
Brasselle began his career as a young performer in vaudeville before turning his attention to acting in film and television. He appeared in numerous films including "The Eddie Cantor Story" and "A Lion Is in the Streets". In addition to his work as an actor, Brasselle was also a successful television producer, responsible for shows such as "The Roaring 20s" and "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis". He also wrote several books, including a memoir about his experiences in Hollywood titled "The Cannibal Who Overate". Later in life, Brasselle took on a new career path as a businessperson and owned a chain of successful restaurants. Brasselle passed away in 1981 at the age of 58.
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Loring Smith
Loring Smith (November 18, 1890 Stratford-July 8, 1981 Fairfield) otherwise known as Loring B. Smith or Loring B. Smith the Great was an American actor.
He appeared in over 25 films, including "The Philadelphia Story" (1940), "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1945), and "The Manchurian Candidate" (1962). Smith was also a prominent figure in the theater world, having acted in numerous Broadway productions throughout the 1920s and 1930s. His notable roles include portraying Mephistopheles in "Doctor Faustus" (1924) and the title character in "Macbeth" (1935). Additionally, Smith was one of the founding members of the Group Theatre, a New York-based company that promoted the development of socially relevant plays.
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Richard Talmadge
Richard Talmadge (December 3, 1892 Camburg-January 25, 1981 Carmel-by-the-Sea) also known as Sylvester Alphonse Metz, Dick Talmadge or Richard Talmage was an American film director, actor, film producer and stunt performer.
He was born in Camburg, Germany and immigrated to the United States with his family as a child. Talmadge began his career in the film industry as a stuntman and gradually moved on to acting and eventually directing and producing. He worked on over 300 films during his career and was known for his expertise in action and stunts. Some of his notable works include directing and producing the Charlie Chan film "The Scarlet Clue" and performing stunts in films such as "The General" and "The Sea Hawk". Talmadge was inducted into the Stuntmen's Hall of Fame in 1967 and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. He retired from the film industry in the late 1950s and passed away in Carmel-by-the-Sea at the age of 88.
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William R Corson
William R Corson (December 23, 1909 Seattle-January 28, 1981 Camano Island) a.k.a. Bill Corson or William Corson was an American actor.
He was born in Seattle and raised in California. Corson began his acting career in the 1930s and appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career. He was known for his Western roles and performed in numerous films alongside famous actors such as John Wayne and Roy Rogers. Outside of acting, Corson also served in World War II and was a member of the United States Navy. In addition, he was an accomplished artist and created several paintings during his lifetime. Corson passed away in 1981 at the age of 71 in Camano Island, Washington.
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Dewey 'Pigmeat' Markham
Dewey 'Pigmeat' Markham (April 18, 1904 Durham-December 13, 1981 The Bronx) a.k.a. Dewey Markham, Markham, Dewey 'Pigmeat' or Pigmeat Markham was an American comedian, singer and actor.
He started his career in traveling minstrel shows and vaudeville before transitioning to radio and eventually television. Markham was known for his signature catchphrase, "Here comes da judge!", which he popularized on the game show "Laugh-In." In addition to his comedic career, Markham was also a talented musician and songwriter, with his most popular song being "Here Comes the Judge," which was released in 1968 and reached number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Despite his success, Markham faced racial discrimination throughout his career and was often limited to stereotypical roles of African Americans in the entertainment industry. He continued performing and making appearances until his death in 1981 at the age of 77.
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Lowell Thomas
Lowell Thomas (April 6, 1892 Woodington-August 29, 1981 Pawling) a.k.a. Lowell Jackson Thomas was an American journalist, businessperson, actor, screenwriter, voice actor and broadcaster. His child is called Lowell Thomas, Jr..
Lowell Thomas began his journalism career in 1914 as a reporter for the Chicago Journal. He later worked for the Chicago Evening Post and the Chicago Herald, where he covered World War I.
In the 1920s, Thomas became a radio broadcaster and achieved national fame for his on-air reporting of historical events such as the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb. He also hosted his own radio show called "The Lowell Thomas Show."
Thomas was also an accomplished writer, penning numerous books on a variety of topics including history, travel, and adventure. His most famous work is likely "With Lawrence in Arabia," which chronicled his time with T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt of World War I.
In addition to his journalism and writing, Thomas also dabbled in acting, screenwriting, and voice acting. He appeared in several films and TV shows throughout his career, and provided the narration for the popular 1960s TV series, "The Twentieth Century."
Thomas was considered one of the most influential journalists of his time, and was inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 1988.
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Michael Maltese
Michael Maltese (February 6, 1908 New York City-February 22, 1981 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Mike Maltese, The Staff, Michael Malteze, Mike or Michael "Mike" Maltese was an American screenwriter, storyboard artist, actor and film score composer.
Maltese was best known for his work with Warner Bros. cartoons, where he created or co-created many famous characters, such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Wile E. Coyote, Road Runner, and Porky Pig, among others. He worked closely with animators Chuck Jones and Friz Freleng on numerous Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons. Maltese's contributions to the Warner Bros. cartoons were essential in establishing their signature style of humor and irreverence.
In addition to his work in animation, Maltese also wrote for television shows and films, including "The Woody Woodpecker Show," "The Flintstones," and "Hey There, It's Yogi Bear!" He received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for his work on the 1957 film "Three Little Bops."
Maltese's career spanned several decades and left a lasting impact on American popular culture. His humor and imagination continue to influence animated cartoons and comedy today.
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Robert H. Harris
Robert H. Harris (July 15, 1911 New York City-November 30, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Robert Harris or Robert H. Hurwitz was an American actor.
He began his career in the 1930s as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television in the 1950s. He appeared in over 70 films, including "The Wild One" and "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" and numerous TV shows, such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Batman." In addition to acting, Harris also worked as a writer and producer for various TV shows. He was known for his versatile character portrayals and was often cast as villains or authority figures. Harris was also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
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Mack Gray
Mack Gray (December 11, 1905 Brooklyn-January 17, 1981 Beverly Hills) also known as Killer or Mack Grey was an American actor.
He began his career in the entertainment industry as a child actor and went on to become a prolific character actor in films and television. Gray appeared in over 200 films, including "The Maltese Falcon," "The Postman Always Rings Twice," and "Gilda."
Gray was known for his tough-guy roles and played many gangsters, henchmen, and villains throughout his career. Despite being typecast in these roles, Gray was able to bring depth and complexity to his characters, earning him critical acclaim as an actor.
In addition to his film work, Gray was also a frequent guest star on television shows in the 1950s and 1960s, including "Perry Mason," "The Twilight Zone," and "Bonanza." His last on-screen appearance was in the 1978 film "F.I.S.T."
Outside of acting, Gray was an avid collector of rare books, manuscripts, and other memorabilia. He also supported various charities and organizations, including the Motion Picture Home and Hospital and the Variety Club.
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Jiří Voskovec
Jiří Voskovec (June 19, 1905 Sázava-July 1, 1981 Pearblossom) also known as Jiri Voskovec, Jiří Wachsmann, Voskovec, Jiří, Jiri Wachsmann, George Voskovec, Petr Dolan, Wookovec, Jirí Voskovec, Jirí Wachsmann, Jiri Vaksman or Václav Voskovec was an American actor, playwright, poet, screenwriter, translator, songwriter and theatre director. His children are called Victoria Voskovec and Georgeanne Voskovec.
Born in Czechoslovakia, Voskovec was also a co-founder of the avant-garde theater group, the Liberated Theater, along with Jan Werich. Together, they created satirical plays critical of the political and social climate of their time. In the 1930s, Voskovec and Werich emigrated to the United States and continued their theatrical careers, performing in Broadway productions and in films. Voskovec also wrote and translated several plays, including the Czech play R.U.R. by Karel Capek, which introduced the word "robot" to the English language. He was married to actress Bozena Svobodova and remained active in the arts until his death in 1981.
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Sven Hugo Borg
Sven Hugo Borg (July 26, 1896 Vinslöv-February 19, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Sven Borg, Sven-Hugo Borg, Sven-Hogo Borg, Hugo-Sven Borg or Hugo Borg was an American actor.
He began his career in Hollywood in the 1920s, appearing in silent films. He later transitioned to talkies and continued acting in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Borg often played supporting roles in films, but also had leading roles in some B-movies. He appeared in over 70 films during his career. Outside of acting, Borg was an accomplished painter and also taught acting classes.
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Allen Ludden
Allen Ludden (October 5, 1917 Mineral Point-June 9, 1981 Los Angeles) also known as Allen Ellsworth, Allen Packard Ellsworth or Allen Ellsworth Ludden was an American game show host, actor, presenter and tv personality. He had three children, David Ludden, Martha Ludden and Sarah Ludden.
Ludden was best known for hosting the game show "Password" from 1961 to 1975, for which he won three Daytime Emmy Awards. He also hosted "Winning Streak" and "Password Plus" and appeared on other television shows such as "The Love Boat" and "Murder, She Wrote." Ludden was a skilled pilot and flew his own plane. He was married three times, including to actress Betty White from 1963 until his death in 1981. In addition to his television work, Ludden was involved in philanthropic efforts and served as a member of the board of directors for the United Cerebral Palsy Association.
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Ward McAllister
Ward McAllister (October 17, 1891 Apollo-February 16, 1981 Norwalk) a.k.a. Ward David McAllister was an American actor.
He was born in Apollo, Pennsylvania, and started his career as an actor in New York City. McAllister appeared on stage and screen, with credits on Broadway productions such as "Hamlet" and "The Country Wife", as well as in films such as "Call Her Savage" and "The Warrior's Husband". In addition to his acting career, McAllister was known for his social connections, and was considered one of the leading figures of high society in New York City during the mid-20th century. He was also an accomplished yachtsman, and won several sailing competitions throughout his life. McAllister died in Norwalk, Connecticut, at the age of 89.
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Charles Barton
Charles Barton (May 25, 1902 San Francisco-December 5, 1981 Burbank) also known as Charles T. Barton, Charlie or Echo was an American film director, television director, film producer, television producer and actor. He had one child, Julie Barton.
During his career, Charles Barton directed over 100 films and TV shows, including some of the popular Abbott and Costello comedies like "Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein" and "Abbott and Costello in Hollywood". He also directed several episodes of the iconic TV series "The Brady Bunch".
Before he embarked on a career in filmmaking, Barton had a successful stint as a actor in silent movies, appearing in more than 50 films. Later, he transitioned to behind the scenes work, starting initially as an assistant director and rising to the position of a full-fledged director and producer.
Barton was involved in the entertainment industry for over four decades and worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood. He was known for his ability to work quickly and efficiently, often completing films ahead of schedule and under budget.
Charles Barton passed away in Burbank, California at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy of memorable films and television shows.
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Maurice Argent
Maurice Argent (March 4, 1916 Pennsylvania-December 7, 1981 San Francisco) also known as Maury, Maurice Saul Argent, Maury Saul Argent or Maurice S. Argent was an American actor.
Argent began his acting career in the 1940s, primarily in theatre productions before transitioning to film and television roles. He appeared in a variety of popular TV shows of the time, such as The Twilight Zone, The Wild Wild West, and Perry Mason. One of his most memorable film roles was in the 1964 thriller Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte, in which he played Harry Willis alongside Bette Davis and Olivia de Havilland.
When he wasn't acting, Argent was an accomplished artist, with many of his paintings being displayed in galleries throughout California. He was also a writer, with several published short stories and plays to his credit.
Argent never married and remained private about his personal life, but he was known to be a passionate animal lover and supported several animal welfare organizations throughout his lifetime.
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