Percy Helton was a well-known American stage, film, and television actor, who appeared in hundreds of roles from the 1910s to the 1970s. He had a distinctive voice and appearance, often playing comic or eccentric characters. He was also a decorated war veteran, who served in the First World War and received the Distinguished Service Cross.
Early Life and Career
Percy Helton was born on January 31, 1894, in Manhattan, New York. His father was a British-born vaudeville performer, and Percy began acting at the age of two, appearing in various acts with his father. He also performed in Broadway plays, such as Julie BonBon (1906). He joined the United States Army in 1917, and fought in France with the 77th Infantry Division. He was wounded by a shell explosion, which damaged his vocal cords and gave him his raspy voice. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery and service.
After the war, he resumed his acting career, mainly in character roles. He appeared in many films, such as Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Criss Cross (1949), The Set-Up (1949), Kiss Me Deadly (1955), and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969). He also appeared in many television shows, such as Perry Mason, The Twilight Zone, The Andy Griffith Show, and The Beverly Hillbillies. He was one of the most recognizable faces and voices in Hollywood, and was often cast as a drunk, a crook, a barber, a clerk, or a bum.
Death and Legacy
Percy Helton died on September 11, 1971, at the age of 77, in Hollywood, California. His cause of death was natural causes, according to his death certificate. He was buried at the Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary, in Los Angeles. He was survived by his wife, Edna Eustace Helton, whom he married in 1931.
Percy Helton is remembered as one of the most prolific and versatile character actors in American cinema and television. He left behind a rich legacy of memorable performances, that showcased his talent, humor, and personality. He was also a respected and admired colleague, who worked with many famous stars and directors. He is regarded as one of the greats of the golden age of Hollywood.
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