Born: January 1, 1891 – Died: November 9, 1967
Charles Bickford, a distinguished American character actor known for his gruff voice and commanding presence, was born as the fifth of seven children in 1891. His early years were marked by a streak of rebelliousness, notably when he was tried and acquitted at the age of nine for the attempted murder of a motorman. Bickford's diverse career before acting included stints as a lumberjack and investment promoter, and he even ran his own pest extermination business for a time.
Early Life and Career
Bickford's journey into the entertainment industry was as unconventional as his childhood. In his late teens, after abandoning his business, he drifted across the country. His life took a dramatic turn in San Francisco when an attempt to woo a burlesque actress led to an offer to join her show. This experience sparked his interest in acting, leading him to spend over a decade touring with road companies and eventually making a splash on Broadway in "Outside Looking In."
Bickford’s transition to Hollywood was marked by his debut in the early days of talkies. Despite a turbulent relationship with MGM and a temporary blacklisting, he persevered, working as a freelancer in [independentfilms. His career, however, faced a severe setback when he was mauled by a lion on the set of 'East of Java (1935)', which significantly affected his leading man status. Undeterred, Bickford redefined himself as a character actor, earning acclaim and three Oscar nominations for roles in films like "The Song of Bernadette" (1943) and "The Farmer's Daughter" (1947).
Beyond the screen, Bickford's personal life was equally rich. He was married to Beatrice Loring since 1916 and had two children. Despite the challenges and transformations in his career, Bickford remained a significant figure in Hollywood up until his death in 1967. His legacy as an actor is marked by his versatility and ability to imbue each role with depth and authenticity, making him a true icon in the entertainment industry.
Filmography
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