Famous actors died as a result of Natural causes
Here are 50 famous actors from the world died in Natural causes:
Ingmar Bergman
Ingmar Bergman (July 14, 1918 Uppsala-July 30, 2007 Fårö) also known as Ernst Ingmar Bergman, Buntel Eriksson or Mr. Ingmar Bergman was a Swedish film director, screenwriter, film producer, actor, cinematographer, writer and television director. He had nine children, Eva Bergman, Daniel Bergman, Linn Ullmann, Anna Bergman, Mats Bergman, Ingmar Bergman, Jr., Maria von Rosen, Jan Bergman and Lena Bergman.
Bergman is considered to be one of the most influential filmmakers in the history of cinema. He directed over 60 films and documentaries, including classics such as "The Seventh Seal" and "Persona". His films often dealt with themes of mortality, faith, and the human condition.
Bergman was also a prolific writer, having written numerous plays, screenplays, and books. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including three Academy Awards, four Golden Globe awards, and the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award.
In addition to his film work, Bergman also served as artistic director for several Swedish theaters and was a professor of film at the University of Stockholm. He continued to work and create up until his death in 2007 at the age of 89.
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Kirk Alyn
Kirk Alyn (October 8, 1910 Oxford Township-March 14, 1999 The Woodlands) otherwise known as John Feggo Jr., Jack Fago, Kirk Allyn, Kirk Allen or John Feggo, Jr. was an American actor. He had three children, Terri O'Brien, Liz Watkins and John Feggo.
Kirk Alyn is perhaps best known for his role as the first actor to portray Superman in live-action form, in the 1948 serials "Superman" and "Atom Man vs. Superman". He started his acting career in the 1930s, appearing in a number of films before being cast as the Man of Steel. After his Superman stint, Alyn continued to act in various films and TV shows, although he never achieved the same level of fame as he did with the superhero role. He also worked as a stuntman and a model for comic book illustrations. Alyn passed away in 1999 at the age of 88.
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Jack Duffy
Jack Duffy (September 27, 1926 Montreal-May 19, 2008 Toronto) was a Canadian comedian, singer and actor.
He began his career in entertainment as a teenager, performing in community theatre productions in Montreal. He later moved to Toronto and became a popular performer on the nightclub circuit, known for his quick wit and improvisational skills.
Duffy's career highlights include appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show and the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. He also appeared in several films, including the Canadian comedy "Meatballs" and the horror film "Black Christmas."
In addition to his work in entertainment, Duffy was also a philanthropist and activist, supporting a number of causes related to education, healthcare, and the arts. He was awarded the Order of Canada in recognition of his contributions to Canadian culture.
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Jim McKay
Jim McKay (September 24, 1921 Philadelphia-June 7, 2008 Monkton) also known as James Kenneth McManus was an American journalist, actor, sports commentator, announcer and screenwriter. He had two children, Sean McManus and Mary Guba.
Jim McKay was best known for hosting ABC's Wide World of Sports from 1961 to 1998. He was also the anchor for ABC's coverage of the Olympic Games from 1960 to 1988. In addition to his work in sports broadcasting, McKay also worked as a journalist and war correspondent.
During his career, McKay received numerous awards for his work in journalism and sports broadcasting, including the George Polk Award and the Sports Lifetime Achievement Award. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1991.
McKay passed away in 2008 at the age of 86 due to complications from Parkinson's disease.
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Karl Gass
Karl Gass (February 2, 1917 Mannheim-January 29, 2009 Kleinmachnow) was a German film director, screenwriter, actor and voice actor.
Throughout his long and accomplished career, Karl Gass directed and wrote screenplays for numerous German films, including "Der Teufel von Amsterdam" (1953), "Der Mann, der seinen Mörder sucht" (1931), and "Nachts auf den Straßen" (1952). He also worked as an actor, appearing in several films, including "Die Venus vom Montmartre" (1927). In addition, Karl Gass was a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to animated characters in German dubs of popular films such as "Lady and the Tramp" (1955) and "101 Dalmatians" (1961). He is remembered as a talented and versatile artist who left a lasting impact on the German film industry.
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Karl Malden
Karl Malden (March 22, 1912 Chicago-July 1, 2009 Brentwood) otherwise known as Mladen George Sekulovich, Cpl. Karl Malden, Malden Sekulovich, Младен Ђорђе Секуловић or Mladen Djordje Sekulovich was an American actor. He had two children, Carla Malden and Mila Malden.
Malden began his acting career in the late 1940s and went on to have a successful career in both film and television. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "A Streetcar Named Desire" in 1951, and also received critical acclaim for his roles in "On the Waterfront," "Baby Doll," and "Patton."
In addition to his acting career, Malden was also known for his advocacy work. He served as the president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences from 1989-1992, and he also worked as a spokesman for the American Express travelers cheques for over 20 years.
Malden was married to his wife, Mona Greenberg, for over 70 years until his death in 2009. He lived a full and accomplished life, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.
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Robert Douglas
Robert Douglas (November 9, 1909 Fenny Stratford-January 11, 1999 Leucadia, Encinitas, California) a.k.a. Robert Douglas Finlayson was a British television director, actor and television producer. His children are called Robert Giles Finlayson and Lucinda Gail Finlayson.
Robert Douglas began his career as a stage actor in London's West End before making the transition to film and television. He appeared in over 50 films, including "The Scarlet Pimpernel" (1934) and "The Private Life of Don Juan" (1934), and acted alongside legendary stars such as Mae West and Cary Grant.
In the 1950s, Douglas moved to the United States, where he worked as a television director and producer. He worked on popular TV shows like "The Adventures of Robin Hood" and "The Twilight Zone," and received an Emmy nomination for his work on "The Outer Limits."
Apart from his work in entertainment, Robert Douglas was also an accomplished pilot, holding a private pilot certificate and a commercial rating. He served as a navigator in the Royal Air Force during World War II and later trained as a pilot in the United States.
Robert Douglas remained active in the entertainment industry until his death in 1999 at the age of 89.
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Willie Davis
Willie Davis (April 15, 1940 Mineral Springs-March 9, 2010 Burbank) a.k.a. William Henry Davis or 3-Dog was an American baseball player and actor.
He played as a center fielder in Major League Baseball for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Montreal Expos, Texas Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, and San Diego Padres. Davis was a three-time Gold Glove winner and two-time National League stolen base champion. He played in three World Series with the Dodgers and was a key member of the team that won the 1965 World Series. After retiring from baseball, Davis pursued a career in acting and appeared in several films and TV shows, including "Bewitched," "The Brady Bunch," and "The Six Million Dollar Man." Davis also founded the Willie Davis Youth Foundation, which aimed to provide educational and recreational opportunities for underprivileged youth in the Los Angeles area.
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Fess Parker
Fess Parker (August 16, 1924 Fort Worth-March 18, 2010 Santa Ynez) also known as Fess Elisha Parker, Jr., Fessbo or Fess Elisha Parker Jr. was an American actor, winemaker, businessperson and voice actor. He had two children, Ashley Allen Rinehart and Fess Elisha Parker III.
Parker is best known for his portrayal of Davy Crockett in the popular Disney TV miniseries in the 1950s. He also starred in other films such as "Old Yeller" and "The Great Locomotive Chase." Parker later became a successful businessman, owning and operating the Fess Parker Winery in Santa Barbara County, California. He also owned a number of hotels in the area. In addition to his acting and business pursuits, Parker was an active philanthropist, working with organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America and the Santa Barbara Zoo. He passed away in 2010 at the age of 85.
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Regis Toomey
Regis Toomey (August 13, 1898 Pittsburgh-October 12, 1991 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as John Regis Toomey or Richard Fraser was an American actor and singer.
He appeared in over 200 films during his career that spanned nearly 50 years. Toomey started his acting career in silent films and later transitioned to talkies. He was known for his roles in films such as "Beau Geste" (1939), "Spellbound" (1945), "The Big Sleep" (1946), and "The Dirty Dozen" (1967). In addition to his film career, Toomey also appeared in numerous television shows and had recurring roles on popular shows such as "Perry Mason" and "Maverick". Toomey was also a talented singer and performed in several Broadway musicals during the 1920s and 1930s. He was married to actress Wanda McKay from 1939 until his death in 1991.
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Art Linkletter
Art Linkletter (July 17, 1912 Moose Jaw-May 26, 2010 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Arthur Gordon Kelly, Linkletter, Art, Gordon Arthur Kelly or Arthur Gordon "Art" Linkletter was an American presenter, radio personality and actor. He had five children, Robert Linkletter, Dawn Linkletter, Sharon Linkletter, Diane Linkletter and Jack Linkletter.
Art Linkletter is best known for his television show, "People Are Funny," which aired from 1954 to 1961. He also hosted the popular daytime talk show "House Party" from 1952 to 1969. Throughout his career, he interviewed hundreds of people from all walks of life, and was known for his ability to put his guests at ease and get them to open up in a humorous and engaging way. In addition to his work on television, Linkletter was also a successful author, penning several books on parenting and other social issues. He was a lifelong philanthropist, and founded the Art Linkletter Youth Foundation to support programs and initiatives that helped young people achieve their full potential.
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Jimmy Dean
Jimmy Dean (August 10, 1928 Plainview-June 13, 2010 Varina) a.k.a. Dean, Jimmy or Jimmy Ray Dean was an American entrepreneur, businessperson, singer, actor and presenter. He had three children, Garry Dean, Connie Dean and Robert Dean.
Dean was best known for his country music career, with hits such as "Big Bad John" and "PT-109". He also hosted his own television show, "The Jimmy Dean Show", from 1957 to 1959. In addition to his music and television work, Dean founded the Jimmy Dean Sausage Company in 1969, which became one of the largest sausage manufacturers in the United States. He sold the company to Sara Lee Corporation in 1984. Dean was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010, shortly before his death at the age of 81.
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Ronald Adam
Ronald Adam (December 31, 1896 Bromyard-March 28, 1979 London) a.k.a. Ronald George Hinings Adams, Ronald Adams, Ronald Adam OBE or Blake was a British actor, military officer, theatre manager, author and playwright. His children are called Jane Adam and David Adam.
Ronald Adam's acting career spanned over four decades, during which he made appearances in numerous films and television series. He had notable roles in films such as "The Way to the Stars" (1945), "Whisky Galore!" (1949), and "The Curse of the Werewolf" (1961). He was also a prolific writer, with several plays and books to his credit. His wartime experiences as a British Army officer during World War I and World War II inspired his plays "Flare Path" (1942) and "The Long Sunset" (1946). He also served as a manager of several West End theatres in London, including the Criterion Theatre and the Haymarket Theatre. Ronald Adam was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1953 for his services to drama.
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Corey Allen
Corey Allen (June 29, 1934 Cleveland-June 27, 2010 Hollywood) also known as Alan Cohen was an American screenwriter, actor, film director, television director and film producer.
He is best known for directing the iconic 1960s film "Rebel Without a Cause," as well as for his work as a television director on shows such as "Star Trek," "Hawaii Five-O," and "The Streets of San Francisco." Allen began his career as an actor, appearing in films such as "Attack of the Puppet People" and "Buckskin" before transitioning to directing and screenwriting. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his screenplay for the 1963 film "The Chapman Report." Allen continued to work in the entertainment industry throughout his career and made a significant impact on both film and television.
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Ralph Houk
Ralph Houk (August 9, 1919 Lawrence-July 21, 2010 Winter Haven) also known as Ralph George Houk or The Major was an American baseball player, manager and actor.
Houk played as a catcher for the New York Yankees from 1947-1954 and later became the team's manager, leading them to three American League pennants and two World Series championships in the 1960s. He also managed the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox. In addition to his baseball career, Houk had a small acting role in the movie adaptation of the book "The Longest Yard," and he authored a book titled "Seasons to Remember" about his time with the Yankees.
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Robert F. Boyle
Robert F. Boyle (October 10, 1909 Los Angeles-August 1, 2010 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Robert Boyle, Robert Francis Boyle, Bob Boyle or Robert F. Boyle was an American production designer, film art director and actor.
Boyle was a highly influential figure in Hollywood, having worked on over 90 films during his long and illustrious career. He is best known for his contributions to classic movies such as North by Northwest, The Birds, and In Cold Blood. Boyle was highly respected for his use of visual design and storytelling to enhance the impact of films, and his work played a crucial role in creating some of the most iconic moments in cinematic history.
Throughout his career, Boyle was recognized with numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the film industry. These included an Academy Award in 2008 for Lifetime Achievement, as well as nominations for Best Art Direction on several occasions. Boyle also served as the president of the Art Directors Guild for a number of years, and was a key figure in shaping the organization into the influential body that it is today.
In addition to his work as a production designer, Boyle also made occasional on-screen appearances as an actor. Most notably, he played the role of the coroner in In Cold Blood, a film that he also helped design. Overall, Robert F. Boyle was a true pioneer in the world of film, whose artistic vision and technical expertise helped to define the visual language of cinema for generations to come.
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Ossie Davis
Ossie Davis (December 18, 1917 Cogdell-February 4, 2005 Miami Beach) also known as Raiford Chatman Davis, Ozzie Davis, R.C. Davis or Raiford Chatman "Ossie" Davis was an American actor, poet, playwright, screenwriter, film director, writer, activist, author and voice actor. He had three children, Guy Davis, Nora Day Davis and Hasna Muhammad Davis.
Davis initially pursued his studies in engineering before he switched his major to drama at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He later joined the Army during World War II and served in Liberia and Europe. After his service, he began his acting career on Broadway in the 1940s and established himself as a prominent actor of the stage, television and film. Davis was also a prominent civil rights activist, working alongside his wife Ruby Dee, and was a speaker at the historic March on Washington in 1963. He was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 2004 for his contributions to American culture. Davis and Dee were married for 56 years until his death in 2005.
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Raúl Velasco
Raúl Velasco (April 24, 1933 Celaya-November 26, 2006 Polanco, Mexico City) otherwise known as Raúl Velasco Ramírez was a Mexican presenter, television producer and actor. He had five children, Raúl Velasco, Claudia Velasco, Arturo Velasco, Karina Velasco and Diego Velasco.
Velasco began his career in the entertainment industry in the 1950s as a radio announcer. He then moved on to become a television presenter, hosting several popular shows throughout his career. His most famous show was "Siempre en Domingo" which aired for over 30 years and featured performances from some of the biggest names in Latin music.
In addition to his work on television, Velasco was also involved in the production of several movies and television series. He was a respected figure in the entertainment industry and is remembered as a pioneer of Mexican television. His legacy continues to inspire many aspiring entertainers in Latin America.
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Jackie Cooper
Jackie Cooper (September 15, 1922 Los Angeles-May 3, 2011 Santa Monica) also known as John Cooper Jr., Alan Smithee, Our Gang, America's Boy, Freddie, Leonard, John "Jackie" Cooper, Jr. or John Cooper was an American actor, television producer, television director, film director, military officer and race car driver. He had four children, Jackie Cooper Jr., Cristina Cooper, Russell Cooper and Julie Cooper.
Cooper gained fame as a child actor during the 1930s, starring in the "Our Gang" series of short films and receiving an Academy Award nomination at the age of 9 for his role in "Skippy." As he grew older, Cooper continued to act in films such as "The Champ" and "Treasure Island," and later transitioned to television where he produced and directed shows such as "M*A*S*H" and "The White Shadow."
During World War II, Cooper served in the Navy and later in the Naval Reserve, reaching the rank of captain. He also competed in professional car racing for several years, and was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2004.
In addition to his show business accomplishments, Cooper was known for his work as a humanitarian, serving as chairman of the National Association of Mental Health and working with organizations such as UNICEF and the Jerry Lewis Telethon. Cooper passed away in 2011 at the age of 88.
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James Arness
James Arness (May 26, 1923 Minneapolis-June 3, 2011 Los Angeles) also known as James Aurness, James King Aurness, Jim Aurness, Jim Arness, James King Arness, Jim or James "Marshal Dillon" Arness was an American actor, soldier and television producer. His children are called Jenny Lee Aurness, Rolf Aurness and Craig Aurness.
Arness is best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series "Gunsmoke," which aired from 1955 to 1975. He held the title for playing the same character in a primetime live-action series for the longest amount of time with "Gunsmoke" running for 20 seasons. Prior to his acting career, Arness served in the United States Army during World War II and was wounded in Italy. He received the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his service. Arness also made notable appearances in films such as "The Thing from Another World" (1951) and "Them!" (1954). In addition to his acting work, Arness also produced several television series, including "Gunsmoke" and "How the West Was Won." He was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame in 1981 and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
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Joe Cobb
Joe Cobb (November 7, 1916 Shawnee-May 21, 2002 Santa Ana) also known as Joseph Frank Cobb or Joe Frank Cobb was an American actor.
He started his career in the film industry in the 1920s as a child actor, appearing in several silent comedies. He is best known for his role as "Joe" in the popular Our Gang (Little Rascals) series, which he starred in from 1923 to 1929. After leaving Our Gang, Cobb continued to act in films, mainly in supporting roles, and even appeared in some television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. Later in life, he worked as a security guard and lived a quiet life away from the limelight. Despite his early success as a child actor, Cobb struggled with his weight and suffered from health problems. He passed away in 2002 at the age of 85.
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Joe Gladwin
Joe Gladwin (January 22, 1906 Ordsall, Greater Manchester-March 11, 1987 Manchester) a.k.a. Joseph Gladwin or Joe Gladwyn was a British actor.
He was best known for his role as Wally Batty in the British sitcom Last of the Summer Wine. Gladwin began his acting career in the 1920s and appeared in various British TV shows and films throughout his career. In addition to his acting work, Gladwin was also an accomplished singer and performed in various musical productions. He was a devoted family man and married his wife, Mary, in 1927. They had three children together. Gladwin's acting career spanned over five decades until his death in 1987 at the age of 81.
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Gemini Ganesan
Gemini Ganesan (November 17, 1920 Pudukkottai-March 22, 2005 Chennai) also known as Ramaswamy Ganesan, Kadhal Mannan King of Romance, Ganesh, Gemini Ganesh, Ganeshan, Kadhal Mannan (King of Romance), Gemini Mama, Saambaar, Kadhal Mannan, King of Romance, Ganapathi Subramania Sarma, Ganapati Subramanian Sarma, "Gemini" Ganesan, "King of Romance", Gemini Ganeshan, Sambar or Ganapathi Subramania was an Indian actor and teacher. His children are called Rekha, Jaya Shreedhar, Radha Usman Syed, Narayani Ganesh, Revathi Swaminathan, Kamala Selvaraj, Sathish Kumaar Ganesan and Vijaya Chamundeswari.
Born in Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, India, Gemini Ganesan started his career as a casting director in the film industry. He made his acting debut in the year 1947 with the Tamil film Miss Malini. He went on to act in over 200 movies in a career spanning five decades. Known for his charming personality and good looks, Gemini Ganesan was often referred to as the "Kadhal Mannan" or "King of Romance". He was married to four women, including the actress Savitri, with whom he had a daughter, actress Rekha. Aside from acting, he was also a trained Carnatic singer and a theater artist. Gemini Ganesan was awarded the Padma Shri by the Government of India in the year 1971 for his contribution to Indian cinema. He passed away in Chennai at the age of 84 due to multiple organ failure.
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Nutan Prasad
Nutan Prasad (December 12, 1945 Kaikaluru-March 30, 2011 Hyderabad) otherwise known as Tadivada Varaprasad, Tadinada Varaprasad or Noothan Prasad was an Indian actor. His child is called Nutan Kumar.
Nutan Prasad was a versatile actor who predominantly worked in Telugu cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1971 film "Kurukshetram" and went on to act in over 500 films in a career spanning three decades. He was known for his impactful performances in character roles and was a favourite of many leading directors in the Telugu film industry.
Some of his most memorable roles were in films like "Sankarabharanam," "Meghasandesam," and "Malliswari." He also acted in a few Hindi films like "Maha Shaktishaali." Nutan Prasad was the recipient of the prestigious Nandi Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film "Muddula Krishnnayya."
Aside from his acting career, Nutan Prasad was also actively involved in social and political activities. He was a member of the Communist Party of India and stood up for the rights of farmers and the underprivileged. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy as one of the finest character actors in Telugu cinema.
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Daniel Ceccaldi
Daniel Ceccaldi (July 25, 1927 Meaux-March 27, 2003 Paris) also known as Daniel Jacques Ceccaldi was a French actor, screenwriter, theatre director, television director, film director and presenter.
Ceccaldi began his acting career in the 1950s and became a prominent figure in French cinema during the 1960s and 1970s. He appeared in over 100 films and worked with notable directors such as Francois Truffaut, Claude Chabrol, and Orson Welles. Ceccaldi was also a prolific stage actor, performing in numerous plays in Parisian theatres. In the 1980s, he transitioned into directing and writing for film and television, receiving critical acclaim for his work. Ceccaldi was also known for his television work, hosting the cultural program "L'Académie des neuf" in the 1980s. He made his mark in French culture, and is remembered as one of the most versatile figures in French entertainment industry.
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Jeffrey Lynn
Jeffrey Lynn (February 16, 1909 Auburn-November 24, 1995 Burbank) also known as Ragnar Godfrey Lind, Rags or Ragnar Lind was an American actor and teacher. He had two children, Letitia Lynn and Jeffrey Lynn Jr..
Jeffrey Lynn began his career in acting in 1938, with an uncredited role in the movie "Alexander's Ragtime Band." He went on to become a contract player at Warner Bros., appearing in several films including "The Roaring Twenties" and "This Is the Army." However, Lynn was also interested in theater and made his Broadway debut in "Margin for Error" in 1939. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Special Services, entertaining troops in the Pacific theater. After the war, Lynn continued to act in both film and theater but eventually shifted his focus to teaching. He founded the Theater Workshop in New York City, where he taught aspiring actors for over two decades. He also served as the head of the drama department at the University of Southern California. Jeffrey Lynn passed away at the age of 86 due to congestive heart failure.
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Russell Simpson
Russell Simpson (June 17, 1880 San Francisco-December 12, 1959 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Russell McCaskill Simpson or Russel Simpson was an American actor. His children are called Roberta Hope and Russell Simpson Jr..
Simpson began his acting career in the theater before transitioning to films in the silent era. He appeared in over 300 films throughout his career with his most notable roles being in westerns such as "The Grapes of Wrath", "Stagecoach," and "Gone with the Wind". Simpson was often cast as a good-natured and grizzled character and was well-known for his distinctive voice. In addition to his acting career, Simpson also worked as a screenwriter and director on a few films. Simpson passed away at the age of 79 in Woodland Hills, California.
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Art Gilmore
Art Gilmore (March 18, 1912 Tacoma-September 25, 2010 Irvine) otherwise known as Arthur Wells Gilmore, Arthur Gilmore, Arthur Wells "Art" Gilmore or Arthur "Art" Gilmore was an American actor, announcer, voice actor, soldier and radio personality. He had two children, Barbara Gilmore McCoy and Marilyn Gilmore.
Gilmore began his career as a radio announcer in the 1930s and 1940s. He then transitioned into acting, appearing in films such as "Destination Moon" and "The Red Pony". He also lent his voice to countless radio and television commercials, as well as narration for documentaries and news programs. Gilmore's most notable job was as the announcer for "The Red Skelton Show" for 25 years. Outside of his entertainment career, Gilmore served in the U.S. Army during World War II and received a Bronze Star for his service. In 2005, he was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. Gilmore passed away in 2010 at the age of 98.
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Van Johnson
Van Johnson (August 25, 1916 Newport-December 12, 2008 Nyack) also known as Charles Van Johnson, Charles Van Dell Johnson, King of Dinner Theater or The Voiceless Sinatra was an American actor, dancer and singer. He had one child, Schuyler Johnson.
Van Johnson was born in Newport, Rhode Island in 1916. He grew up in a family of five and attended a local school in Rhode Island. After graduating from high school, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in entertainment. His first break came when he was cast in a Broadway production in the late 1930s. He then started appearing in movies in the early 1940s and quickly became a popular leading man, starring in films such as "A Guy Named Joe" (1943) and "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" (1944).
During his career, Johnson also served in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, he returned to Hollywood and continued to act, appearing in movies such as "The Caine Mutiny" (1954) and "The Last Time I Saw Paris" (1954). In addition to his acting career, Johnson was also known for his singing and dancing abilities, and often performed on stage and in television specials.
Later in life, Johnson continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in television shows and movies throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He passed away in Nyack, New York in 2008 at the age of 92.
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John Conte
John Conte (September 15, 1915 Palmer-September 4, 2006 Rancho Mirage) was an American actor and radio personality. He had one child, Christopher Conte.
Conte first rose to prominence in the entertainment industry as a radio announcer in New York City in the 1930s. He later parlayed this into a successful career as an actor, gracing both stage and screen with his talents. Some of his notable performances include his roles in the films "Guadalcanal Diary", "Johnny Angel", and "The Sniper". He also had a recurring role in the television series "The Californians". Outside of his entertainment career, Conte was a decorated World War II veteran, having served in the US Navy as a gunnery officer. In his later years, he retired from show business and lived out his life in Rancho Mirage, California, where he passed away at the age of 90.
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David Manners
David Manners (April 30, 1900 Halifax-December 23, 1998 Santa Barbara) otherwise known as Dave Manners, David J. Manners, Rauff de Ryther Duan Acklom, David Joseph Manners or Rauff de Ryther Daun Acklom was a Canadian actor.
He was known for his roles in several horror films, including "Dracula" (1931) alongside Bela Lugosi, "The Mummy" (1932) and "The Black Cat" (1934) with Boris Karloff, both directed by Edgar G. Ulmer. Despite his success in horror films, Manners was not fond of the genre and ultimately retired from acting in 1936 to focus on writing. He went on to author several successful novels, including "Death of a Buzzard" (1941) and "The Marble Forest" (1949). Later in life, Manners moved to California and became a successful real estate developer.
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Alexandre Trauner
Alexandre Trauner (August 3, 1906 Budapest-December 5, 1993 Omonville-la-Petite) a.k.a. Alex. Trauner, A. Trauner, Alexander Trauner, Trauner, Sándor Trau or Alex Trauner was a Hungarian production designer, film art director, set decorator and actor.
He is best known for his work in French and American films, having been nominated for an Academy Award for his set decoration in 1952's Moulin Rouge. Trauner collaborated with many acclaimed filmmakers, including Marcel Carné, Billy Wilder, and William Wyler. He also worked on the set of the classic film, Casablanca. In addition to his work in film, Trauner also designed sets for theater productions, both in Europe and the United States. He was a highly respected figure in the film industry, and his contributions were recognized with numerous awards throughout his career.
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Chilakalapudi Seeta Rama Anjaneyulu
Chilakalapudi Seeta Rama Anjaneyulu (July 11, 1907 Narasaraopet-October 8, 1963 Chennai) a.k.a. Chilakalpudi Seeta Anjaneyulu, CSR, C. S. R. Anjaneyulu or Chilakalpud Seeta Rama Anjaneyulu was an Indian actor.
He is best known for his work in Telugu cinema and was instrumental in bringing the Telugu theater to the silver screen. Anjaneyulu made his debut in the film industry with the 1936 Telugu film "Bhakta Potana". He went on to act in more than 350 films, portraying a vast range of characters in various languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Hindi. Anjaneyulu was a versatile actor and was highly respected for his ability to deliver emotionally stirring performances. He also worked as a writer and director, and produced several films under the banner of Anjali Pictures. Chilakalapudi Seeta Rama Anjaneyulu established himself as a prominent figure in the South Indian film industry and his contributions have been recognized with several awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri in 1962.
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Sheldon Leonard
Sheldon Leonard (February 22, 1907 New York City-January 11, 1997 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Sheldon Leonard Bershad, Leonard Sheldon Bershad or S.L. Bershad was an American actor, television producer, television director, screenwriter, film producer and writer. He had two children, Andrea Bershad and Stephen W Bershad.
Sheldon Leonard started his career as an actor in the mid-1930s, appearing in films such as "It Could Happen to You" and "His Girl Friday". However, he eventually shifted his focus to producing and directing television shows. He was responsible for creating the hit 1950s sitcom "The Danny Thomas Show", which later became "Make Room for Daddy".
In addition to "The Danny Thomas Show", Sheldon Leonard produced and directed a number of other popular TV programs, including "The Andy Griffith Show", "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.", and "I Spy". He was known for his unique comedic style and his ability to work closely with actors to get the best out of their performances.
Outside of his work in the entertainment industry, Sheldon Leonard was a committed philanthropist. He was a lifelong supporter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and was awarded the organization's highest honor, the Lifetime Achievement Award, in 1995.
Despite his numerous accomplishments, Sheldon Leonard remained humble throughout his life. He once famously said, "I never wanted to be a star; I wanted to be a character actor. That's a much finer thing to be."
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Charles Lane
Charles Lane (January 26, 1905 San Francisco-July 9, 2007 Santa Monica) also known as Charles Gerstle Levison, Charles Levison, Charles Levinson, Charlie Lane or Charles L. Lane was an American actor and voice actor. His children are called Tom Lane and Alice Lane.
Lane started his acting career in the 1920s as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television in the 1930s. He appeared in over 350 film and television productions in a career spanning seven decades. His notable film credits include "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town", "Twentieth Century", and "It's a Wonderful Life". Lane is also known for his extensive work as a voice actor, including the voice of the lawyer in the Disney classic "Lady and the Tramp". Along with his acting career, Lane was also a dedicated philanthropist and served as the treasurer for the Screen Actors Guild.
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Ian Wolfe
Ian Wolfe (November 4, 1896 Canton-January 23, 1992 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Ien Wulf, Ian Wulf, Ian Wolf or Ian MacWolfe was an American actor and poet. His children are called Moya Wolfe and Deirdre Wolfe.
Ian Wolfe had an extensive career on stage, in film, and on television, spanning over five decades. He appeared in over three hundred films, including "Rebecca," "The Barretts of Wimpole Street," and "The Haunting." Wolfe was also known for his roles in science fiction and horror films such as "The House of Wax" and "The Invisible Ray."
Apart from acting, Wolfe was also a gifted poet and wrote several volumes of poetry throughout his life. He was a member of the Actors Studio and mentored several young actors throughout his career. In 1979, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Films.
Ian Wolfe died in 1992 at the age of 95 in Los Angeles, where he had lived for many years. His contributions to the entertainment industry and the arts are remembered to this day.
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Charley Grapewin
Charley Grapewin (December 20, 1869 Xenia-February 2, 1956 Corona) a.k.a. Charles Ellsworth Grapewin, Charley Ellsworth Grapewin or Charles Grapewin was an American actor, aerialist and screenwriter.
Grapewin appeared in dozens of films, including several silent films, and is perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Henry in the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz". He began his career in vaudeville as an aerialist before transitioning to acting, and also worked as a screenwriter in the early days of cinema. In addition to his film work, Grapewin also acted on stage and in radio dramas. He continued to act in films throughout the 1940s, with his final role coming in the 1952 film "Hans Christian Andersen". In addition to his entertainment career, Grapewin was an avid collector of antiques and artifacts, and his extensive collection was later donated to a museum.
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Ray Teal
Ray Teal (January 12, 1902 Grand Rapids-April 2, 1976 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Ray E. Teal was an American actor and musician.
Ray Teal began his career as a musician, playing trumpet in various bands throughout the 1920s. However, he eventually transitioned to acting and became a prolific character actor in Hollywood. Teal is perhaps best known for his role as Sheriff Roy Coffee on the TV series "Bonanza," a role he played for 12 years. He appeared in over 250 films and TV shows over the course of his career, often playing law enforcement officials or other authority figures. Teal was known for his deep, commanding voice and his imposing presence on screen. In addition to his acting career, Teal was also a dedicated member of the Church of Scientology and worked as an auditor for the church in his later years.
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Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw (May 23, 1910 New York City-December 30, 2004 Thousand Oaks) a.k.a. Arthur Arshawsky, Arthur Jacob Arshawsky or King of the Clarinet was an American composer, musician, clarinetist, actor, bandleader, film score composer, author and music arranger. His children are called Jonathan Shaw and Steven Kern.
Shaw began his music career in the late 1920s and rose to prominence in the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s. He was known for his virtuosic clarinet playing and his orchestral arrangements, which were innovative and influential in the development of the big band sound. Shaw's hits included "Begin the Beguine," "Stardust," and "Frenesi," and he collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Billie Holiday and Bing Crosby. He was also a successful bandleader, and his band was one of the most popular of the era. Despite his success, Shaw was known for his difficult personality and his frequent retirements from the music industry. After retiring from music in the 1950s, he focused on writing and became a successful author. Throughout his life, Shaw was also involved in civil rights activism and was outspoken about issues of race and injustice.
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Jack Kruschen
Jack Kruschen (March 20, 1922 Winnipeg-April 2, 2002 Chandler) also known as Jack Joseph Kruschen was a Canadian actor and voice actor.
Kruschen began his acting career on radio shows in the 1940s before transitioning to film and television in the 1950s. He appeared in over 200 films and television episodes throughout his career and was best known for his roles in "The Apartment", for which he was nominated for an Academy Award, and "The War of the Worlds". In addition to his work on screen, Kruschen was also a successful voice actor and voiced several characters in popular cartoons such as "The Jetsons" and "The Flintstones". He continued to act well into his seventies, appearing in films such as "The Day of the Locust" and "Grumpy Old Men".
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Clem Bevans
Clem Bevans (October 16, 1879 Cozaddale-August 11, 1963 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Clem Bevins or Clement Guy Blevins was an American actor. His children are called Clark Bevans, Luppee Bevans, Clemene Bevans and Edith Bevans.
Bevans began his acting career on stage before transitioning to film in 1932. He appeared in over 150 films, often portraying elderly, cantankerous characters with a quirky sense of humor. Some of his notable film roles include Mr. Zeke in "The Yearling" (1946), Grandpa Amos in "The Night of the Hunter" (1955), and Old Joe in "High Noon" (1952).
Bevans was also a familiar face on television, appearing on popular shows like "The Beverly Hillbillies" and "Lassie". In addition to acting, he was an accomplished artist, and would often paint during breaks on film sets.
Bevans was married to his wife Catherine for over 60 years until her death in 1960. He passed away three years later at the age of 83.
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Jester Hairston
Jester Hairston (July 9, 1901 Belews Creek-January 18, 2000 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Jester Joseph Hairston, Jester J. Hairston, Jasper J. Hairston, Rolly or Hairston, Jester was an American actor, conductor, music arranger, composer, songwriter and singer.
He was best known for his work in Hollywood as a choral conductor and arranger for films, including "Song of the South" and "The Alamo." He also appeared in more than 20 films as an actor, including "To Kill a Mockingbird" and "The Big Red One."
Hairston was deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement and often used his music to express his support for the cause. He wrote the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing" and also arranged and conducted the performances of the song at rallies and events.
In addition to his work in Hollywood and activism, Hairston was a prominent figure in the world of gospel music. He served as the music director for the Hall Johnson Choir and The Robert Shaw Chorale, among others.
Hairston passed away in 2000 at the age of 98, leaving behind a rich legacy in music and activism.
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Tommy Farrell
Tommy Farrell (October 7, 1921 Hollywood-May 9, 2004 Woodland Hills) also known as Thomas Farrell Richards, Tommie Farrell or Tom Farrell was an American actor, comedian and soldier. His children are called Ellen Farrell, Kathy Farrell, Erin Farrell and Mark Farrell.
He appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career spanning five decades. Farrell started his career as a child actor and appeared in a number of films during the 1930s and 1940s. He later served in the army during World War II, and upon returning to the US, he resumed his acting career. Farrell is best known for his roles in popular movies such as "Rio Bravo" (1959), "The Killing" (1956) and "The Big Sky" (1952). He also had recurring roles on TV shows such as "Gunsmoke" and "Rawhide". Farrell was married to actress Marie Harmon for 45 years until her death in 1998.
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Hank Worden
Hank Worden (July 23, 1901 Rolfe-December 6, 1992 Los Angeles) also known as Norton Earl Worden, Hank Warden, Worden Norton, Heber Snow, Norton E. 'Hank' Warden or Worden Norten was an American actor, tour guide, wrangler and cowboy. He had one child, Dawn Henry.
Hank Worden was best known for his roles in western films, where he often played a sidekick or supporting character. He appeared in over 200 films and television shows throughout his career, including "Red River," "The Searchers," and "Twin Peaks."
Before becoming an actor, Worden worked as a cowboy and toured the United States as a rodeo clown. He even spent time as a tour guide at the Grand Canyon, where he would perform rope tricks and tell stories for visitors.
Despite his prolific career in Hollywood, Worden remained humble and true to his cowboy roots. He was known for his kind personality and often helped out with stunts and wrangling on set.
Worden passed away at the age of 91 in Los Angeles, California. He is remembered as a beloved character actor and iconic cowboy in film history.
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Morgan Farley
Morgan Farley (October 3, 1898 Mamaroneck-October 11, 1988 San Pedro) otherwise known as Francis Morgan Farley or Morgan Farlay was an American actor.
Morgan Farley was born in Mamaroneck, New York in 1898. He began his acting career in the 1930s and appeared in over 275 films and television shows throughout his career. Farley had a distinct voice and was often cast in roles as lawyers, judges, or other authority figures. He was also known for his work as a voice actor, providing the narration for many documentaries and newsreels.
Some of Farley's film credits include "I Walked with a Zombie," "Rocketship X-M," and "The Ten Commandments." He also appeared on various television programs such as "The Twilight Zone," "Gunsmoke," and "The Beverly Hillbillies."
In addition to his acting work, Farley was also an accomplished artist and sculptor. He passed away in San Pedro, California in 1988 at the age of 90.
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Bill Erwin
Bill Erwin (December 2, 1914 Honey Grove-December 29, 2010 Studio City) also known as William Lindsey Erwin, William Erwin, Will Erwin, Bill Irwin, William L. Erwin or William Lindsey "Bill" Erwin was an American actor, cartoonist, soldier and writer. He had four children, Timothy Erwin, Lindsey Thomas Erwin, Kelly Erwin and Michael Erwin.
Erwin was born and raised in Texas, where he initially studied law. However, his heart was always in the arts, and he eventually moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. He appeared in numerous Broadway productions in the 1940s and 1950s, including "South Pacific" and "Stalag 17."
In addition to his work on stage, Erwin also had a successful career as a cartoonist. His illustrations appeared in magazines such as The New Yorker and Colliers.
During World War II, Erwin served in the Army Signal Corps. He was stationed in Europe and worked as a cartoonist for the military newspaper Stars and Stripes. After the war, he continued to serve in the reserves and eventually retired as a lieutenant colonel.
Erwin's acting career continued into the 1980s and 1990s, with appearances on shows such as "Seinfeld" and "The Golden Girls." He is perhaps best known for his role as Sid Fields on the television series "The Twilight Zone."
Erwin also wrote several books, including a memoir about his time in the military called "And the Wind Blew Cold." He was married to his wife, Fran, for over 50 years until her death in 1994.
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Francis Lederer
Francis Lederer (November 6, 1899 Prague-May 25, 2000 Palm Springs) also known as František Lederer, Frantisek Lederer or Franz Lederer was an American actor.
He was born in Prague, Czech Republic, and began his career in Hollywood during the 1920s. Lederer was often cast in romantic lead roles and starred in several notable films, including "Pandora's Box" (1929), "The Man Who Knew Too Much" (1934), and "Confessions of a Nazi Spy" (1939).
During World War II, Lederer became a naturalized citizen of the United States and worked with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) to help the Allied war effort. After the war, he continued his acting career in both film and television, appearing in productions such as "The Diary of Anne Frank" (1959) and "The Return of Dracula" (1958).
Aside from acting, Lederer was also a successful painter and sculptor. He continued to work in the arts until his death in Palm Springs in 2000 at the age of 100.
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Ben Alexander
Ben Alexander (June 27, 1911 Goldfield-August 6, 1969 Hollywood) also known as Nicholas Benton Alexander, Bennie Alexander, Benny Alexander, Alexander or Nicholas Benton Alexander III was an American actor and businessperson. He had three children, Lesley Alexander, Bradford Alexander and Nicholas Jr. Alexander.
Ben Alexander is best known for his role as police officer Frank Smith in the television series, "Dragnet." He appeared in every episode of the series from 1952 to 1959. Prior to his acting career, Alexander supported himself as a successful businessman in his hometown of Los Angeles, California. He opened several gas stations and car dealerships, which allowed him to invest in his passion for acting. Alexander made his film debut in "Every Day's a Holiday" in 1937 and went on to appear in over 80 films and television shows throughout his career. In addition to his work in "Dragnet," Alexander had recurring roles in the television series "The New Phil Silvers Show" and "Felony Squad." He passed away in 1969 at the age of 58 due to cancer.
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Dick Elliott
Dick Elliott (April 30, 1886 Boston-December 22, 1961 Los Angeles) also known as Richard E. Elliott, Richard Elliott, Richard Damon Elliott, Richard "Dick" Elliott or Dick Elliot was an American actor.
He began his career in vaudeville before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Elliott appeared in over 240 films and television shows during his career, often playing character roles such as old codgers, shopkeepers, and judges. He is perhaps best known for his role as Ollie on the television series Petticoat Junction. Elliott was also a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild and remained a member for over 30 years. He passed away at the age of 75 due to heart disease.
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Buddy Rogers
Buddy Rogers (August 13, 1904 Olathe-April 21, 1999 Rancho Mirage) otherwise known as Charles Rogers, Chas. Buddy Rogers, Buddy Rogers, Charles Buddy Rogers, Charles ['Buddy'] Rogers and his California Cavaliers, America's Boyfriend, Buddy, Charles Edward Rogers, Charles Edward “Buddy” Rogers or Charles "Buddy" Rogers was an American actor and film producer. He had two children, Roxanne Rogers and Ronald Charles Rogers.
Rogers began his career in the silent film era and gained fame for his leading role in the first ever Academy Award-winning film, "Wings," in which he played a World War I fighter pilot. He went on to star in a number of successful films, including "My Best Girl," "The Cruise of the Zaca" and "Follow Thru."
Aside from his acting career, Rogers was also a successful musician and bandleader. He formed his own orchestra, "Buddy Rogers and his California Cavaliers," and recorded several popular songs in the 1920s and 1930s.
Later in life, Rogers became an advocate for the preservation of early Hollywood history and artifacts. He donated many of his personal items, including his Oscar statuette, to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Rogers passed away in 1999 at the age of 94, leaving behind a legacy as both a talented actor and musician, and a champion for the preservation of Hollywood history.
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