Richard Basehart

Born:August 13, 1914

Place of Birth:Zanesville, Ohio, USA

Died:September 17, 1984

Known For:Acting

Biography

Richard Basehart, born John Richard Basehart on August 31, 1914, left an indelible mark on the world of acting. His career spanned decades and genres, showcasing his versatility and talent. Basehart is perhaps best known for his role as Admiral Harriman Nelson in the 1960s television series Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, where he captivated audiences with his commanding presence and gravitas.

Beyond his television work, Basehart also made a significant impact in the world of film. His portrayal of "the Fool" in Federico Fellini's La Strada remains a standout performance, highlighting his ability to bring complex characters to life on the big screen. Additionally, his roles in film noir classics like He Walked by Night and his portrayal of Ishmael in Moby Dick solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Basehart's marriage to Italian actress Valentina Cortese added another dimension to his personal life, showcasing his connection to the world of international cinema. Their collaboration in films like The House on Telegraph Hill further demonstrated their on-screen chemistry and shared passion for the craft of acting.

Known for his deep, distinctive voice, Basehart's talents extended beyond acting. He lent his voice to numerous projects, serving as a narrator for a wide range of television and movie productions. His narration in the mini-series Vietnam: The Ten Thousand Day War and his role as the narrator in the credits of Knight Rider underscored his ability to captivate audiences with his voice alone.

Basehart's contributions to television extended beyond acting and narration. His appearances in iconic shows like Gunsmoke, The Twilight Zone, and Little House on the Prairie showcased his versatility as an actor, tackling a diverse range of roles with skill and nuance. His guest role in the Columbo episode Dagger of the Mind alongside Honor Blackman highlighted his ability to bring complex characters to life in memorable ways.

In his later years, Basehart continued to leave his mark on the entertainment industry with appearances in TV movies like Sole Survivor and The Birdmen, drawing on true stories from World War II. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to storytelling shone through in each role he undertook, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of film and television.

Basehart's passing at the age of 70 marked the end of a storied career that had touched the hearts of audiences around the world. His final act as an announcer at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles served as a fitting tribute to a man whose voice and presence had left an indelible impact on the world of entertainment. Richard Basehart's legacy lives on through his timeless performances and his enduring contributions to the art of acting.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Being There

Vladimir Skrapinov

1979

A simple-minded gardener named Chance has spent all his life in the Washington D.C. house of an old man. When the man dies, Chance is put out on the street with no knowledge of the world except what he has learned from television.

Moby Dick

Ishmael

1956

In 1841, young Ishmael signs up for service aboard the Pequod, a whaler sailing out of New Bedford. The ship is under the command of Captain Ahab, a strict disciplinarian who exhorts his men to find Moby Dick, the great white whale. Ahab lost his leg to that creature and is desperate for revenge. As the crew soon learns, he will stop at nothing to gain satisfaction.

La Strada

Il 'Matto'

1954

When Gelsomina, a naïve young woman, is purchased from her impoverished mother by brutish circus strongman Zampanò to be his wife and partner, she loyally endures her husband's coldness and abuse as they travel the Italian countryside performing together. Soon Zampanò must deal with his jealousy and conflicted feelings about Gelsomina when she finds a kindred spirit in Il Matto, the carefree circus fool, and contemplates leaving Zampanò.

Los Angeles Plays Itself

Roy Morgan/Roy Martin in He Walked By Night (archive footage)

2004

From its distinctive neighborhoods to its architectural homes, Los Angeles has been the backdrop to countless movies. In this dazzling work, Andersen takes viewers on a whirlwind tour through the metropolis' real and cinematic history, investigating the myriad stories and legends that have come to define it, and meticulously, judiciously revealing the real city that lives beneath.