Ed Begley
back| Full Name | Edward James Begley |
| Stage Name | Ed Begley |
| Born | March 25, 1901 |
| Birthplace | Hartford, Connecticut, U.S. |
| Died | April 28, 1970 |
| Buried | San Fernando Mission Cemetery, Los Angeles, California |
| Married to | Amanda Huff (m. 1922; d. 1957) - Dorothy Reeves (m. 1961; div. 1963) - Helen Jordan (m. 1963; until his death) |
| Children | Ed Begley Jr. (with Amanda Huff) - Allene Begley (with Amanda Huff) - Maureen Begley (with Helen Jordan) |
| Notable films | 12 Angry Men (1957) - Sweet Bird of Youth (1962) - The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964) - Hang 'Em High (1968) |
Ed Begley
The Indomitable Character Actor
Ed Begley (1901–1970) was a distinguished American character actor known for his commanding presence and versatility. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, he left school early and worked odd jobs before serving in the U.S. Navy.
He gained recognition in radio before transitioning to Broadway, winning a Tony Award for Inherit the Wind (1956). Hollywood soon followed, with standout roles in 12 Angry Men (1957) and Sweet Bird of Youth (1962), the latter earning him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He was known for portraying powerful yet deeply flawed figures, often exuding a mix of authority and vulnerability.
Beyond acting, he was a dedicated father, influencing his son, Ed Begley Jr. His career spanned radio, television, film, and theater, leaving a lasting impact on American entertainment. He passed away in 1970 from a heart attack, but his legacy endures in classic cinema and the work of his son.
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Ed Begley (1901 – 1970)
Biography and Movie Career
Edward James Begley was born on March 25, 1901, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Irish immigrant parents, Hannah (née Clifford) and Michael Joseph Begley. His early life was marked by hardship. His father, a factory worker, struggled to provide for the family, and young Ed learned self-reliance at an early age. His childhood was anything but stable—he ran away from home multiple times and dropped out of school in the fifth grade, seeking adventure and survival in a world that demanded resilience.
Despite his limited formal education, Begley developed a sharp wit and a strong work ethic. His early jobs ranged from selling brushes door-to-door to working as a milkman. He also found employment in carnivals and circuses, traveling across the country and soaking in the experiences that would later inform his character-driven performances. He served four years in the U.S. Navy during World War I, an experience that further shaped his discipline and determination.
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Begley's Path to Success
After his military service, Begley’s voice became his greatest asset. With a deep, commanding tone, he entered the world of radio during its golden age. He landed roles in popular programs, including The Fat Man, where he played Sgt. O’Hara, and Richard Diamond, Private Detective, as Lieutenant Walter Levinson. His work in radio gave him widespread recognition, setting the stage for his transition to theater and film.
By the 1940s, Begley was a sought-after actor for his ability to bring complex, often rough-edged characters to life. His Broadway debut came in 1943, and he soon became known for his commanding stage presence. His breakthrough role came in 1955 when he starred in Inherit the Wind, a drama based on the Scopes Monkey Trial. His performance was so compelling that it earned him a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor.
Hollywood soon took notice, and Begley transitioned into film with ease. His gruff demeanor, distinctive voice, and nuanced performances made him a natural fit for character roles. He became one of the most respected supporting actors of his time, often portraying tough, morally complex figures.
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Hollywood Stardom and an Oscar Win
Begley’s film career hit its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. He starred in the classic courtroom drama 12 Angry Men (1957), where he played the bigoted Juror #10, a performance that remains one of his most memorable. However, his crowning achievement came in 1962, when he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the corrupt politician Boss Finley in Sweet Bird of Youth, opposite Paul Newman and Geraldine Page.
Other notable films included The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964), Odds Against Tomorrow (1959), and Hang ’Em High (1968). His ability to seamlessly transition between film, television, and theater kept him busy, and he remained a highly respected actor throughout his career.
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Marriages and Personal Life
Despite his tough on-screen persona, Begley’s personal life was marked by deep relationships and family devotion. He was married three times:
• Amanda Huff (1922–1957): His first and longest marriage was to Amanda Huff, with whom he had two children, including Ed Begley Jr., who would later follow in his father’s footsteps as an actor. Amanda’s passing in 1957 was a great loss for Begley, and it took time for him to recover emotionally.
• Dorothy Reeves (1961–1963): His second marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce after just two years.
• Helen Jordan (1963–1970): His final marriage was to Helen Jordan, with whom he had another child, Maureen Begley. They remained together until his passing.
Though Begley was known for his gruff exterior, those close to him described him as a devoted father and a fiercely loyal friend. He was deeply passionate about social issues and often engaged in discussions about politics, injustice, and the responsibilities of those in power.
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Passions Beyond Acting
Outside of acting, Begley had a passion for sports, particularly horse racing and baseball. He was an avid reader, often diving into books about history and political affairs. Despite his blue-collar roots, he was highly intellectual and loved engaging in debates about current events.
He was also a mentor to many young actors, including his son, Ed Begley Jr., whom he encouraged to take the craft seriously. His advice to young actors was simple yet profound: "Learn from every role, no matter how small. The best actors listen more than they speak."
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Final Years and Death
Ed Begley remained active in the entertainment industry until his final years, continuing to take on roles in film and television. However, his health began to decline in the late 1960s.
On April 28, 1970, Ed Begley suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 69. His passing was a significant loss to Hollywood, as he was one of the last great character actors of his era. He was laid to rest at San Fernando Mission Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.
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Legacy
Ed Begley’s contributions to film, television, radio, and theater were immense. He left behind a body of work that continues to be studied and admired, particularly his performances in 12 Angry Men and Sweet Bird of Youth. His son, Ed Begley Jr., carried on his legacy, becoming a well-known actor and environmental activist.
Begley’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and authenticity. From a runaway boy with little education to an Academy Award-winning actor, his journey remains an inspiration to those who believe in the transformative power of storytelling.
Height and Body Features
• Ed Begley Sr. stood at 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters) tall.
• He had a balding, heavy-set, and fleshy-faced appearance.
• His deep, resonant voice and commanding presence made him a natural fit for authoritative roles in theater, radio, film, and television.
Ed Begley receiving the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1963
Ed Begley’s Acting Style: A Force of Authority and Depth
Ed Begley was a character actor of extraordinary range and presence, bringing an authentic gravitas to every role he played. His acting style was marked by intensity, subtlety, and an authoritative delivery, making him one of the most respected supporting actors of his time. Whether portraying corrupt politicians, weary lawmen, or deeply flawed individuals, Begley had an uncanny ability to command the screen, often making even the most secondary characters feel essential to the story.
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Commanding Presence and Natural Authority
One of Begley’s defining traits was his imposing screen presence. His deep, resonant voice and firm, deliberate cadence made him the perfect choice for roles that required a sense of control, whether as a judge, captain, businessman, or political figure. Even when he wasn’t the central character, his presence ensured that the audience took notice.
In 12 Angry Men (1957), he played Juror #10, a prejudiced and hot-tempered man whose stubbornness and hostility create friction within the jury room. He masterfully balanced aggression with moments of insecurity, making the character more than just a one-dimensional antagonist. His breakdown in the film—where his racist views are ultimately silenced by the silent condemnation of the other jurors—is one of the most powerful moments of the film, a testament to his ability to bring nuance to even the most unpleasant characters.
Similarly, in Sweet Bird of Youth (1962), his portrayal of Boss Finley, a corrupt Southern politician, was filled with a mix of charisma and menace. His ability to shift from a charming public figure to a ruthless manipulator within a single scene was a hallmark of his acting style. This performance earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, proving his capability to steal scenes without overacting.
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Mastery of Emotional Complexity
Though often cast in roles of power and influence, Begley was also adept at portraying vulnerability and internal struggle. He was never just the "tough guy"—his characters often displayed layers of emotion beneath the surface, whether it was frustration, regret, or desperation.
In Patterns (1956), he played William Briggs, an aging executive in a cutthroat corporate world. Here, he skillfully depicted the pain of obsolescence, as his character faced the harsh reality of being replaced by younger, more ruthless businessmen. His performance was deeply sympathetic, showing that he could bring dignity and pathos to roles that might otherwise be dismissed as mere supporting characters.
His work in Odds Against Tomorrow (1959) further showcased his ability to convey moral conflict and inner turmoil. Playing Dave Burke, a former cop turned bank robbery mastermind, Begley gave the character a mix of determination and vulnerability, showing a man weighed down by past failures yet desperate for redemption.
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Versatility Across Genres
Begley’s talent was not limited to one genre—he seamlessly transitioned between film noir, drama, westerns, crime thrillers, and even science fiction. This adaptability was a key aspect of his longevity in Hollywood.
• In film noir, such as The Street with No Name (1948) and Backfire (1950), he exuded a rugged realism, often playing cops, detectives, or criminals with an air of authenticity.
• In westerns, such as Hang ’Em High (1968) and Firecreek (1968), he brought a stern, no-nonsense authority, often portraying lawmen or seasoned frontier figures.
• Even in science fiction and satire, such as The Monitors (1969) and Billion Dollar Brain (1967), Begley adapted to quirkier, surrealist tones while maintaining his signature gravitas.
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Subtle Physicality and Expressiveness
Though Begley was not known for theatrical gestures or exaggerated mannerisms, he used subtle body language to enhance his performances. His steady posture, piercing gaze, and deliberate movements made his characters feel grounded and believable. He had a way of pausing before delivering a key line, adding weight and tension to the moment.
One of his strongest techniques was his expressive face, particularly his eyes. Whether conveying disappointment, anger, or skepticism, Begley had a way of saying more with a glance than many actors could with an entire monologue. This subtlety made his performances feel lived-in and natural rather than overly theatrical.
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A Character Actor Who Elevated Every Role
Unlike leading men who often played variations of the same heroic archetype, Begley transformed himself with each role. He had no vanity in his acting—he was willing to play morally complex or unlikable characters, yet he always made them feel real. His performances were not just about delivering lines but about inhabiting the world of the character, whether as a defeated businessman, a corrupt senator, or a stubborn juror.
His ability to bring depth to supporting roles is why he remains one of the most respected character actors of his generation. He understood that great acting wasn’t just about being in the spotlight—it was about serving the story in the most authentic way possible.
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Legacy: The Actor’s Actor
Ed Begley’s legacy is that of a timeless performer whose work continues to be studied and admired. His ability to bring humanity, depth, and complexity to even the smallest roles made him an actor who never needed to be the "star" to leave a lasting impression.
His son, Ed Begley Jr., carried on the family tradition, becoming a well-known actor in his own right. Though Begley Sr. passed away in 1970, his performances endure, proving that great acting transcends time. His work in 12 Angry Men, Sweet Bird of Youth, and Patterns remains essential viewing for anyone who appreciates the power of nuanced, character-driven storytelling.
Awards and Recognition
Academy Awards:
• 1963: Won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Tom 'Boss' Finley in Sweet Bird of Youth (1962).
Tony Awards:
• 1956: Won the Tony Award for Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Dramatic) for his performance in Inherit the Wind.
Golden Globe Awards:
• 1963: Nominated for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture for Sweet Bird of Youth (1962).
Primetime Emmy Awards:
• 1956: Nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for Kraft Television Theatre (Episode: "Patterns").
• 1966: Nominated for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Drama for Inherit the Wind.
Grammy Awards:
• 1958: Nominated for Best Performance, Documentary or Spoken Word for Great American Speeches.
Laurel Awards:
• 1963: Nominated for Top Male Supporting Performance for Sweet Bird of Youth (1962).
• 1965: Nominated for Top Male Supporting Performance for The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964).
Movies with Ed Begley
1947
• Boomerang!: Begley portrays Paul Harris in this crime drama about a prosecutor who struggles with his conscience while handling a case involving a vagrant accused of murder.
1948
• Sitting Pretty: Begley plays Horatio J. Hammond in this comedy about a couple who hire a mysterious babysitter, leading to unexpected events.
• The Street with No Name: He takes on the role of Chief Bernard Harmatz in this film noir where an FBI agent infiltrates a gang to solve a series of murders.
• Deep Waters: Begley is Josh Hovey in this drama about a fisherman who becomes involved in the life of a troubled orphan.
• Sorry, Wrong Number: In this suspenseful thriller, Begley portrays James Cotterell, entangled in a plot about a bedridden woman who overhears a murder plan on the telephone.
1949
• Tulsa: Begley plays John J. 'Johnny' Brady in this drama about the oil boom in Tulsa and its impact on the local community.
• It Happens Every Spring: He is Edgar Stone in this comedy about a chemistry professor who invents a substance that repels wood, aiding his baseball pitching.
• The Great Gatsby: Begley portrays Myron Lupus in this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel about the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby.
1950
• Backfire: Begley plays Captain Garcia in this film noir about a war veteran searching for his missing friend.
• Stars in My Crown: He is Lon Backett in this drama about a preacher's impact on a small town in the post-Civil War South.
• Convicted: Begley portrays Mackay, Head of Parole Board, in this crime drama about a man wrongfully convicted of murder.
• Saddle Tramp: He plays August Hartnagle in this Western about a drifter who becomes the guardian of four orphaned children.
• Wyoming Mail: Begley is Prison Warden Haynes in this Western centered on a postal inspector combating mail thieves.
• Dark City: He portrays Barney in this film noir about a group of gamblers who find themselves in trouble after a game goes wrong.
1951
• You're in the Navy Now: Begley plays the Port Commander in this comedy about the trials of a new naval officer.
• The Lady from Texas: He is Dave Blodgett in this Western about a man trying to clear his name after being wrongfully accused.
• On Dangerous Ground: Begley portrays Captain Brawley in this film noir about a city cop who finds redemption while investigating a rural murder.
1952
• Boots Malone: Begley plays Howard Whitehead in this drama about a jockey's agent and his relationship with a young apprentice.
• Lone Star: He is Senator Anthony Demmet in this Western about the annexation of Texas into the United States.
• Deadline – U.S.A.: Begley portrays Frank Allen in this crime drama about a newspaper editor determined to expose a gangster.
• The Turning Point: He plays Neil Eichelberger in this crime drama about a special prosecutor targeting organized crime.
1954
• Big Boy: Begley is Joe Grant in this drama about a railroad engineer facing the transition from steam to diesel locomotives.
1956
• Patterns: Begley reprises his role as William Briggs in this drama about corporate power struggles.
1957
• 12 Angry Men: Begley delivers a memorable performance as Juror #10 in this courtroom drama about a jury deliberating the guilt of a young man accused of murder.
1959
• Odds Against Tomorrow: He plays Dave Burke in this film noir about a former policeman planning a bank heist with two accomplices.
1961
• The Green Helmet: Begley portrays Bartell in this drama about a race car driver confronting personal and professional challenges.
1962
• Sweet Bird of Youth: In an Academy Award-winning performance, Begley plays Tom 'Boss' Finley, a corrupt politician in this drama about a drifter returning to his hometown.
1964
• The Unsinkable Molly Brown: Begley is Seamus Tobin in this musical about the life of the indomitable Molly Brown, who survived the Titanic disaster.
1966
• The Oscar: He portrays Grobard in this drama about an actor's ruthless rise to fame.
1967
• Warning Shot: Begley plays Captain Roy Klodin in this crime thriller about a police sergeant who kills a man and faces an internal investigation.
• Billion Dollar Brain: He is General Midwinter in this spy thriller about a former British agent drawn into a plot involving a supercomputer.
1968
• Firecreek: Begley portrays Preacher Broyles in this Western about a peace-loving town marshal facing a gang of outlaws.
• Wild in the Streets: He plays Senator Allbright in this satirical drama about a rock star who becomes president and sends everyone over 30 to concentration camps.
• Hang 'Em High: Begley is Captain Wilson in this Western about a man seeking justice after surviving a lynching.
• A Time to Sing: He portrays Kermit Dodd in this musical drama about a young farmer pursuing a career in country music.
1969
• The Monitors: Begley plays Dr. Grover Maxwell in this satirical science fiction film about a mysterious alien race known as "The Monitors," who take control of Earth in an attempt to create a peaceful and orderly society. However, their strict enforcement of rules and lack of personal freedom spark resistance among humans.
1970
• The Dunwich Horror: Begley portrays Dr. Henry Armitage in this horror film based on H.P. Lovecraft's story, where a young woman becomes involved with a man attempting to summon ancient evil entities.
• Road to Salina: In his final film role, Begley plays Warren in this psychological thriller about a drifter who is mistaken for a woman's missing son, leading to a complex web of deception.
TV Shows with Ed Begley
Anthology Series:
• "Robert Montgomery Presents" (1954): Starred in the episode "Big Boy" as Joe Grant, an engineer grappling with the transition from steam to diesel locomotives.
• "Kraft Television Theatre" (1955): Featured in "Patterns" as William Briggs, a role he reprised in the 1956 film adaptation.
Dramatic Series:
• "Justice" (1954): Appeared in this legal drama series.
• "Empire" (1962): Guest-starred in this Western series.
• "The Virginian" (1962): Made an appearance in this Western series.
• "The Fugitive" (1963): Guest-starred in this crime drama series.
• "The Dick Van Dyke Show" (1964): Featured in this classic sitcom.
• "The Invaders" (1967): Delivered dynamic performances in two episodes: "The Betrayed" and "Labyrinth."
• "The Wild Wild West" (1968): Appeared in this Western series.
• "My Three Sons" (1968): Guest-starred in this family sitcom.
Sitcoms:
• "Leave It to Larry" (1952–1953): Co-starred with Eddie Albert in this CBS sitcom.
• "The Lucy Show" (1968): Portrayed Andrew Bailey in the episode "Lucy and the Stolen Stole."
Westerns:
• "Bonanza" (1968): Guest-starred in this iconic Western series.
• "Wagon Train" (1964): Appeared in this Western series.
Legal Dramas:
• "The Defenders" (1962): Featured in this courtroom drama series.
Variety Shows:
• "The Ed Sullivan Show" (1958): Appeared as himself on this popular variety program.