Alan Hewitt

Alan Hewitt

The Gentleman Skeptic

Alan Hewitt is remembered for his versatility and his ability to portray a wide range of supporting characters, making him a familiar face to audiences of classic films and television.

Despite not being a leading man, his contribution to the entertainment industry, especially in family-oriented films and TV series, remains significant.

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Days of Wine and Roses - 1962

Alan Hewitt (1915 – 1986)

Biography and Movie Career

Alan Whittemore Hewitt was born on January 21, 1915, in New York City, New York. Growing up in the vibrant, culturally rich environment of New York, Hewitt was exposed to the arts from a young age. His interest in acting and the performing arts was apparent early on, as he was drawn to the theater and the burgeoning world of film. This passion for acting led him to pursue formal training in drama.

Hewitt attended the prestigious Yale School of Drama, where he honed his acting skills and developed his craft. Yale's rigorous program, known for producing talented and well-rounded actors, provided Hewitt with a strong foundation in both classical and contemporary theater. His education at Yale was instrumental in shaping his acting style and preparing him for a career in Hollywood.

Early Career and Path to Success

After completing his education, Hewitt began his career in the theater. He worked in various stage productions, where he garnered a reputation as a reliable and skilled actor. His performances on stage caught the attention of talent scouts and producers, which eventually led to his transition into the film industry.

Hewitt's screen career began in the 1940s, where he initially took on smaller roles. His early film appearances included uncredited parts and minor roles, which served as a stepping stone to more significant opportunities. His career took a more defined shape in the 1950s and 1960s, as he started to secure more prominent supporting roles in both movies and television.

Alan Hewitt's breakthrough came with his association with Disney productions, where he frequently played authority figures such as professors, lawyers, and detectives. This typecasting into authoritative roles became his trademark, making him a familiar face in many family-oriented films of that era.

Notable Film and Television Roles

Hewitt's most memorable film roles include:

• "The Absent-Minded Professor" (1961): In this classic Disney comedy, Hewitt played Mr. Daggett, a skeptical college administrator. His performance, filled with humor and seriousness, complemented the film's whimsical tone.
• "Son of Flubber" (1963): Hewitt reprised his role as Mr. Daggett in this sequel to "The Absent-Minded Professor," once again showcasing his ability to play the straight-laced, skeptical character.
• "Days of Wine and Roses" (1962): In this dramatic film about alcoholism, Hewitt took on a supporting role alongside stars Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick, demonstrating his versatility beyond comedy.
• "That Darn Cat!" (1965) and "The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes" (1969): Both films were part of his ongoing collaboration with Disney, which solidified his reputation as a dependable character actor in family films.

In addition to his film work, Hewitt had a successful television career. He appeared in several popular TV series of the time, including:

• "My Favorite Martian": Hewitt played Detective Bill Brennan, a recurring character who was often at odds with the series' protagonist, providing a humorous contrast to the show's science fiction elements.
• "Bewitched": He guest-starred in multiple episodes of this iconic sitcom, once again demonstrating his ability to play authoritative figures with a comedic twist.
• "Perry Mason", "The F.B.I.", and "The Lucy Show": These guest appearances further highlighted his versatility and solidified his presence on the small screen.

Personal Life

Despite his frequent on-screen appearances, Alan Hewitt kept his personal life relatively private. There is little public record of his personal relationships, including whether he was married or had children. His discretion about his private affairs suggests that he preferred to keep his personal and professional lives separate. This discretion may have contributed to the lack of detailed information about his personal life, as Hewitt focused on his career rather than publicizing his personal endeavors.

Passions and Interests

Beyond acting, Alan Hewitt was known to have a passion for the arts in general. His early involvement in theater indicates a deep appreciation for live performance, which often served as a grounding influence for many film and TV actors of his time. While specific hobbies and interests outside of acting are not well-documented, his dedication to his craft suggests a lifelong commitment to the performing arts.

Later Years and Death

Alan Hewitt continued to work steadily in television and film throughout the 1960s and into the 1970s. As he aged, he took on fewer roles, but his contributions to the entertainment industry remained appreciated by audiences and colleagues alike.

Hewitt passed away on November 7, 1986, in New York City at the age of 71. The cause of his death was cancer. His death marked the end of a long and varied career in acting, during which he left a lasting impression on the American entertainment landscape. Although not a leading man, his ability to consistently deliver reliable and engaging performances ensured that he would be remembered as a significant character actor of his era.

Alan Hewitt's legacy lies in his extensive body of work and his ability to bring authenticity and credibility to his roles. His portrayals of authority figures, often with a touch of humor or skepticism, became his hallmark and made him a familiar and beloved character actor to audiences. His work, particularly in Disney films, remains a part of classic American cinema, and his contributions to television reflect the versatility and talent he brought to his craft.

In an industry where leading roles often overshadow the contributions of supporting actors, Alan Hewitt's career stands as a testament to the importance of character actors in enriching the narrative and adding depth to both film and television stories.

Days of Wine and Roses Trailer with Alan Hewitt:

Alan Hewitt: An Analysis of His Acting Style

Alan Hewitt was a character actor whose style was marked by a unique blend of authority, sophistication, and a touch of humor. He carved out a niche for himself in Hollywood, especially in the 1960s, as a reliable presence in both film and television. His acting style can be dissected into several key elements that made his performances distinctive and memorable:

Authority and Gravitas

One of the hallmarks of Hewitt's acting style was his ability to portray characters with a strong sense of authority and gravitas. Whether he was playing a college administrator, a detective, a businessman, or a lawyer, Hewitt brought a believable weight and seriousness to his roles. His upright posture, clear diction, and confident demeanor made him the perfect choice for characters who needed to project control and command.

Hewitt’s voice was deep and resonant, which added to the aura of authority around him. He had a way of delivering lines that conveyed both intelligence and control, which made him particularly effective in roles that required him to challenge or question the protagonist’s actions. This authoritative presence was perhaps most memorably showcased in his roles in Disney films like "The Absent-Minded Professor" and its sequel, "Son of Flubber," where he played the skeptical Mr. Daggett, the college administrator who was often at odds with the main character.

Subtle Humor and Comedic Timing

Despite his authoritative persona, Alan Hewitt had a gift for infusing his characters with subtle humor. He often played straight-man roles in comedies, reacting with disbelief or exasperation to the antics of the more eccentric characters around him. This ability to play the foil was crucial in films where the humor came from the clash between the orderly world he represented and the chaos brought by the protagonist.

His comedic timing was impeccable. Hewitt knew how to use a raised eyebrow, a perfectly timed pause, or a deadpan expression to convey humor without stepping out of the boundaries of his authoritative character. This subtlety made him a valuable asset in comedies, as he provided a grounding effect that balanced out the more overtly comedic elements. In "That Darn Cat!" and "The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes," for example, Hewitt's reactions to the unfolding absurdities added a layer of humor that was understated yet effective.

Versatility within Typecasting

Hewitt was often cast in similar roles, which speaks to his strength in playing characters of authority. However, within this typecasting, he demonstrated considerable versatility. He could be the stern and skeptical college dean, the no-nonsense detective, or the frustrated lawyer. Each of these characters had a distinct personality and set of motivations, and Hewitt adeptly modulated his performances to suit the needs of each role.

In "Days of Wine and Roses," a serious drama about the struggles with alcoholism, Hewitt took on a supporting role that demanded a more subdued and compassionate performance. This film demonstrated that his acting ability went beyond the comedic and authoritative to include more complex emotional depths. It showed Hewitt’s capacity to adapt his authoritative style to different genres and tones, proving his versatility as an actor.

Facial Expressions and Body Language

Alan Hewitt's acting was marked by his effective use of facial expressions and body language. He had a knack for conveying skepticism or disapproval with just a look, making his characters' reactions clear without the need for dialogue. His expressions often communicated a mixture of irritation and bemusement, which was particularly effective in the comedic scenarios he frequently found himself in.

His body language was always controlled and precise, reinforcing his characters’ sense of authority. Hewitt had a way of using his posture to dominate a scene subtly, often positioning himself in a way that signified control or superiority. This non-verbal communication was a critical component of his acting style, adding depth and nuance to his performances.

Understated and Consistent Presence

Hewitt’s style was understated, which made him a consistent and dependable presence in the films and shows he appeared in. He never overacted or stole the spotlight, which is why he was often cast in supporting roles. His performances were about serving the story and supporting the lead actors, providing a solid and reliable counterpart to their characters. This understated approach made his performances feel real and grounded, lending credibility to the often fantastical or exaggerated worlds of the films he was part of.

Balance Between Comedy and Drama

Hewitt's ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama was a testament to his skill as an actor. While he is most remembered for his comedic roles in Disney films, he also took on dramatic roles that required a different set of skills. His performance in "Days of Wine and Roses" is an example of his capacity to handle serious material with the same level of commitment and authenticity as he did with lighter fare.

Conclusion

Alan Hewitt's acting style was defined by his authoritative presence, subtle humor, and versatility within his typecast roles. His ability to balance authority with a touch of comedy made him a valuable supporting actor, particularly in the family films and television shows of the 1960s and 1970s. His performances were marked by restraint and precision, allowing him to bring a sense of realism and believability to even the most outlandish plots. Hewitt's work may not have always been in the spotlight, but his consistent, reliable, and nuanced performances ensured his lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Awards and Recognition:

Alan Hewitt, despite a long and productive career as a character actor, did not receive major awards or widespread formal recognition for his work in film and television. His roles were primarily in supporting capacities, often providing reliable and memorable performances that complemented the main cast rather than taking center stage.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

• Contributions to Disney's Golden Era: Hewitt’s recurring appearances in Disney films contributed to the studio's success during the 1960s and 1970s. These films are still remembered fondly, and his roles in them have become part of the fabric of classic Disney nostalgia.
   
• Character Actor Recognition: Although he did not receive individual accolades, Hewitt's work is often cited as a prime example of effective character acting. His ability to play authority figures with a blend of seriousness and humor made him a valuable asset in ensemble casts.

Memorable Quotes from Alan Hewitt's Characters

"The Absent-Minded Professor" (1961)

Mr. Daggett: "What kind of nonsense are you talking about now, Professor?"

This line, delivered by Hewitt's character, Mr. Daggett, encapsulates the skepticism and exasperation he often portrayed when dealing with the antics of Professor Ned Brainard (Fred MacMurray). It highlights his character's role as the voice of reason and authority amidst the chaos of the professor's experiments.

"Son of Flubber" (1963)

Mr. Daggett: "Professor, this is highly irregular!"

Another example from Hewitt's recurring role as Mr. Daggett, demonstrating his typical reaction to the unpredictable situations caused by the Flubber invention. Hewitt's delivery added a sense of urgency and seriousness to the comedic events.

"That Darn Cat!" (1965)

Mr. MacDougall: "This is preposterous! A cat solving a crime? Only in a Disney movie!"

As Mr. MacDougall, a character in this comedic mystery, Hewitt's lines often underscored the incredulity of the adults towards the extraordinary events unfolding, reflecting the humorous clash between everyday reality and the fantastical elements of the story.

"The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes" (1969)

Dean Higgins: "A student with a computer brain? What's next, a chimpanzee running the campus?"

Though Hewitt played various authority figures in his career, this type of line showcases his knack for expressing bewilderment and skepticism about the evolving world of technology and youth culture, which was a common theme in Disney’s family comedies of the era.

Movies featuring Alan Hewitt:

• "This Is the Army" (1943)

Synopsis: A wartime musical comedy produced by Warner Bros., based on the Broadway musical of the same name. The film featured a large ensemble cast and showcased patriotic songs and sketches intended to boost morale during World War II.
 

• "The Great Lover" (1949)

Synopsis: A comedy film starring Bob Hope and Rhonda Fleming. The plot revolves around a bachelor, played by Hope, who finds himself in a series of humorous and romantic misadventures on a cruise ship.
 

• "The Mad Magician" (1954)

Synopsis: A horror mystery film where Vincent Price plays a magician who uses his illusions to commit murder. Alan Hewitt appears in a supporting role, contributing to the film's suspenseful atmosphere.
 

• "The Young Lions" (1958)

Synopsis: A war drama starring Marlon Brando, Montgomery Clift, and Dean Martin, which explores the experiences of three soldiers during World War II. Hewitt's role is a smaller part in this ensemble cast.
 

• "Bell, Book and Candle" (1958)

Synopsis: A romantic comedy starring James Stewart and Kim Novak, where Novak plays a modern-day witch who falls in love with a mortal. Hewitt had a minor role, contributing to the film's lighthearted and magical tone.
 

• "Imitation of Life" (1959)

Synopsis: A drama film directed by Douglas Sirk, exploring themes of race and identity. The story revolves around two single mothers and their daughters, one of whom is trying to pass as white. Hewitt played a supporting character in this socially charged narrative.
 

• "The Connection" (1961)

Synopsis: A drama film adapted from the off-Broadway play of the same name. It tells the story of heroin addicts waiting for their next fix. Hewitt had a role that added to the film's gritty and realistic portrayal of addiction.
 

• "The Absent-Minded Professor" (1961)

Synopsis: A Disney comedy about a bumbling professor, played by Fred MacMurray, who invents "Flubber," a flying rubber substance. Hewitt plays Mr. Daggett, a college administrator, bringing a touch of skepticism and authority to the film's comedic plot.
 

• "Days of Wine and Roses" (1962)

Synopsis: A drama directed by Blake Edwards, starring Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick, that deals with the destructive effects of alcoholism on a young couple. Hewitt plays a supporting role, contributing to the film's exploration of addiction and recovery.
 

• "Son of Flubber" (1963)

Synopsis: The sequel to "The Absent-Minded Professor," this film continues the story of the professor and his miraculous invention, Flubber. Hewitt reprises his role as Mr. Daggett, maintaining his skeptical stance towards the professor's antics.
 

• "Island of Love" (1963)

Synopsis: A comedy film about a screenwriter and his friend who flee to Greece after getting involved with the mob. Alan Hewitt played a supporting role in this lighthearted film.
 

• "A Global Affair" (1964)

Synopsis: A comedy about an American UN official who finds an abandoned baby at the United Nations headquarters. The film stars Bob Hope, and Hewitt's role adds to the humor and international intrigue of the plot.
 

• "That Darn Cat!" (1965)

Synopsis: A Disney comedy involving a clever Siamese cat who helps solve a kidnapping case. Hewitt played a supporting role, adding to the film's blend of mystery and family-friendly humor.
 

• "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" (1967)

Synopsis: A satirical comedy musical about a young man who rises to the top of a large corporation using a self-help book. Hewitt played a minor role, contributing to the film's comedic critique of corporate life.
 

• "Did You Hear the One About the Traveling Saleslady?" (1968)

Synopsis: A comedy about a woman who revolutionizes the sales industry by selling player pianos door-to-door. Hewitt played a supporting character, adding to the film's quirky narrative.
 

• "The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit" (1968)

Synopsis: A Disney comedy about a Madison Avenue advertising executive who buys a horse for his daughter to gain a new client. Hewitt played a supporting role, enhancing the film's humorous take on business and family life.
 

• "The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes" (1969)

Synopsis: A Disney comedy featuring Kurt Russell as a college student who gains superhuman intelligence after a computer accident. Hewitt played a supporting role as a figure of authority, consistent with his casting type.
 

• "The Barefoot Executive" (1971)

Synopsis: A comedy about a young television network employee, played by Kurt Russell, who discovers that a chimpanzee can pick successful TV shows. Hewitt appears in a supporting role, contributing to the corporate satire.
 

• "Now You See Him, Now You Don't" (1972)

Synopsis: A Disney science fiction comedy and sequel to "The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes." Kurt Russell stars again as the student who invents an invisibility formula. Hewitt reprises his typical role as a supporting authority figure.
 

• "Herbie Rides Again" (1974)

Synopsis: A family comedy and the second film in the "Herbie" series about a Volkswagen Beetle with a mind of its own. Hewitt appears in a minor role, adding to the film's comedic ensemble.
 

• "The Cat from Outer Space" (1978)

Synopsis: A Disney science fiction comedy about an alien cat who lands on Earth and enlists the help of a scientist to repair his spacecraft. Hewitt played a supporting role, adding to the film's whimsical and family-friendly appeal.

TV Shows featuring Alan Hewitt:

·  "My Favorite Martian" (1963–1966)

Role: Detective Bill Brennan

Synopsis: Hewitt had a recurring role as Detective Bill Brennan, who was often suspicious of the strange activities surrounding Tim O'Hara (played by Bill Bixby) and his "Uncle Martin," the Martian (played by Ray Walston). His character added tension and humor as he tried to uncover the truth.

·  "Perry Mason" (1957–1966)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt made multiple appearances on this classic legal drama, often portraying lawyers, judges, or other legal professionals. "Perry Mason" was known for its courtroom drama and suspenseful storytelling, and Hewitt's roles added to the procedural and legal atmosphere of the show.

·  "Bewitched" (1964–1972)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt appeared in several episodes of this beloved sitcom about a witch living a suburban life with her mortal husband. His roles varied but typically involved playing figures of authority or skepticism, interacting with the magical antics of Samantha and her family.

·  "The Lucy Show" (1962–1968)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt made guest appearances on Lucille Ball's popular comedy show, known for its slapstick humor and the comedic talents of its lead. Hewitt's roles usually involved playing straight-laced characters who would react to Lucy’s zany schemes.

·  "The F.B.I." (1965–1974)

Role: Various

Synopsis: In this crime drama series, Hewitt appeared as different characters, often involved in law enforcement or criminal activities. His authoritative demeanor made him a natural fit for roles within the procedural crime drama genre.

·  "Dr. Kildare" (1961–1966)

Role: Various

Synopsis: This medical drama series featured Hewitt in guest roles as doctors or medical professionals. His appearances added to the show's realistic portrayal of hospital life and medical ethics.

·  "Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C." (1964–1969)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt made appearances on this sitcom, which followed the comedic misadventures of a good-natured but bumbling Marine. His roles typically involved playing military or civilian authority figures reacting to Gomer’s antics.

·  "The Twilight Zone" (1959–1964)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt appeared in an episode of this iconic science fiction anthology series, known for its twist endings and moral tales. His appearance contributed to the eerie and thought-provoking atmosphere that "The Twilight Zone" was famous for.

·  "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" (1955–1965)

Role: Various

Synopsis: This anthology series featured Hewitt in various roles in its suspenseful and often darkly comedic stories. His ability to convey skepticism and authority suited the show's need for characters caught in tense and sometimes morally ambiguous situations.

·  "77 Sunset Strip" (1958–1964)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt appeared in guest roles on this private detective series, known for its hip and stylish portrayal of detective work in Los Angeles. His roles typically aligned with his strengths as a character actor who could bring a sense of authenticity to the procedural elements of the show.

·  "Bonanza" (1959–1973)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt made guest appearances in this iconic Western series. His roles, often as townsfolk or officials, contributed to the show's depiction of life in the Old West.

·  "Mission: Impossible" (1966–1973)

Role: Various

Synopsis: Hewitt appeared in guest roles on this action-packed spy series, which featured an elite covert operations team. His authoritative presence was well-suited to the espionage and intrigue central to the show's plots.

·  "Nanny and the Professor" (1970–1971)

Role: Various

Synopsis: This family sitcom featured Hewitt in guest roles, typically as characters interacting with the whimsical and slightly magical happenings around the main characters. His parts often brought a balance of skepticism to the show's more fanciful elements.