Lee Phelps

Born:May 14, 1893

Place of Birth:Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Died:March 19, 1953

Known For:Acting

Biography

Lee Phelps, a prolific American film actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry during his extensive career. With a career spanning from 1917 to 1953, Phelps graced the silver screen in over 600 films, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. Despite often being cast in uncredited roles, his presence never went unnoticed by audiences.

Among his impressive filmography, Phelps had the privilege of appearing in three cinematic masterpieces that went on to win the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture. His contributions to films like "Grand Hotel," "You Can't Take It with You," and "Gone with the Wind" added depth and richness to these iconic productions, solidifying his status as a respected character actor in Hollywood.

In addition to his work in film, Phelps also made notable appearances on television, further expanding his reach and leaving a lasting impact on the small screen. His role as a judge in the 1952 episode "Outlaw's Paradise" in the western series "The Adventures of Kit Carson" demonstrated his ability to captivate audiences across different mediums.

One of Phelps' memorable television appearances includes his role in a 1952 episode of "The Lone Ranger," where his talent and presence shone through, captivating viewers and showcasing his versatility as an actor. His ability to seamlessly transition between film and television underscored his adaptability and enduring appeal to audiences of all ages.

Throughout his career, Phelps's dedication to his craft and his commitment to delivering memorable performances set him apart as a consummate professional in the entertainment industry. Despite often being cast in uncredited roles, his contributions to each project were invaluable, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and industry peers alike.

Behind the scenes, Phelps was known for his professionalism, work ethic, and collaborative spirit, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues. His passion for storytelling and bringing characters to life on screen was evident in each role he undertook, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor.

As a character actor, Phelps had a unique ability to breathe life into every role he portrayed, infusing each character with depth, nuance, and authenticity. Whether he was playing a judge, a cowboy, or a supporting character, Phelps brought a sense of realism and sincerity to his performances, making him a beloved figure in the world of cinema.

Despite the challenges and demands of a career in the entertainment industry, Phelps remained dedicated to his craft until his passing in 1953, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and timeless characters that continue to resonate with audiences today. His contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark on the industry, cementing his status as a respected and revered actor.

Lee Phelps' enduring legacy as a talented and versatile actor continues to inspire and captivate audiences, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the magic of cinema. His remarkable career serves as a testament to his passion for the craft and his unwavering commitment to bringing characters to life with authenticity and depth, solidifying his place in the annals of Hollywood history.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Gone with the Wind

Bartender (uncredited)

1939

The spoiled daughter of a Georgia plantation owner conducts a tumultuous romance with a cynical profiteer during the American Civil War and Reconstruction Era.

Red River

Gambler (uncredited)

1948

Following the Civil War, headstrong rancher Thomas Dunson decides to lead a perilous cattle drive from Texas to Missouri. During the exhausting journey, his persistence becomes tyrannical in the eyes of Matthew Garth, his adopted son and protégé.

Scarlet Street

First Policeman in Hogarth's Office (uncredited)

1945

Cashier and part-time starving artist Christopher Cross is absolutely smitten with the beautiful Kitty March. Kitty plays along, but she's really only interested in Johnny, a two-bit crook. When Kitty and Johnny find out that art dealers are interested in Chris's work, they con him into letting Kitty take credit for the paintings. Cross allows it because he is in love with Kitty, but his love will only let her get away with so much.

White Heat

Prison Tower Guard (uncredited)

1949

A psychopathic criminal with a mother complex makes a daring break from prison and then leads his old gang in a chemical plant payroll heist. After the heist, events take a crazy turn.

The Philadelphia Story

Bartender (uncredited)

1940

When a rich woman's ex-husband and a tabloid-type reporter turn up just before her planned remarriage, she begins to learn the truth about herself.

Duel in the Sun

Train Fireman (uncredited)

1946

Beautiful half-breed Pearl Chavez becomes the ward of her dead father's first love and finds herself torn between her sons, one good and the other bad.

You Only Live Once

Corridor Guard (uncredited)

1937

Based partially on the story of Bonnie and Clyde, Eddie Taylor is an ex-convict who cannot get a break after being released from prison. When he is framed for murder, Taylor is forced to flee with his wife Joan Graham and baby. While escaping prison after being sentenced to death, Taylor becomes a real murderer, condemning himself and Joan to a life of crime and death on the road.

The Thin Man

Detective (uncredited)

1934

A husband and wife detective team takes on the search for a missing inventor and almost get killed for their efforts.

You Can't Take It with You

Bailiff (uncredited)

1938

Alice, the only relatively normal member of the eccentric Sycamore family, falls in love with Tony Kirby, but his wealthy banker father and snobbish mother strongly disapprove of the match. When the Kirbys are invited to dinner to become better acquainted with their future in-laws, things don't turn out the way Alice had hoped.

The Public Enemy

Steve - Bartender (uncredited)

1931

Two young Chicago hoodlums, Tom Powers and Matt Doyle, rise up from their poverty-stricken slum life to become petty thieves, bootleggers and cold-blooded killers. But with street notoriety and newfound wealth, the duo feels the heat from the cops and rival gangsters both. Despite his ruthless criminal reputation, Tom tries to remain connected to his family, however, gang warfare and the need for revenge eventually pull him away.