Charles McGraw

Born:May 10, 1914

Place of Birth:Des Moines, Iowa, USA

Died:July 29, 1980

Known For:Acting

Biography

Charles McGraw, originally named Charles Butters, was a versatile American actor who made a significant impact on stage, screen, and television. Renowned for his distinctive gravelly voice and rugged appearance, he effortlessly portrayed characters in film noir classics during the late 1940s and early 1950s. McGraw's commanding presence and intense performances captivated audiences and solidified his status as a leading man in the noir genre.

With a career spanning over three decades, McGraw's talent and dedication to his craft earned him a reputation as a reliable and versatile actor. His ability to convincingly portray characters such as cops, military officers, and tough-as-nails individuals showcased his range and versatility as a performer. McGraw's on-screen charisma and commanding demeanor set him apart from his contemporaries, making him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.

Beyond his work in film noir, McGraw also showcased his acting prowess in various other genres, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different roles and narratives. Whether playing the role of a heroic lawman or a formidable antagonist, he brought a sense of authenticity and depth to each character he portrayed. McGraw's performances were marked by a sense of gravitas and intensity that left a lasting impression on audiences.

In addition to his work in film, McGraw also made notable contributions to the world of television, appearing in a variety of popular shows and series throughout his career. His magnetic presence and strong screen presence translated seamlessly to the small screen, further solidifying his status as a versatile and accomplished actor in both mediums. McGraw's work in television helped him reach a wider audience and cement his legacy as a respected and talented performer.

Despite his success in Hollywood, McGraw remained humble and dedicated to his craft, approaching each role with a sense of professionalism and commitment. His work ethic and passion for acting were evident in every performance, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike. McGraw's ability to immerse himself fully in his characters and bring them to life on screen set him apart as a truly exceptional talent in the industry.

Throughout his career, McGraw collaborated with some of the most acclaimed directors, writers, and actors in the business, leaving a lasting impact on the world of cinema. His contributions to film and television continue to be celebrated and appreciated by audiences around the world, solidifying his legacy as a true icon of the silver screen. Charles McGraw's enduring influence on the entertainment industry serves as a testament to his talent, dedication, and lasting impact as an actor.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Spartacus

Marcellus

1960

The rebellious Thracian Spartacus, born and raised a slave, is sold to Gladiator trainer Batiatus. After weeks of being trained to kill for the arena, Spartacus turns on his owners and leads the other slaves in rebellion. As the rebels move from town to town, their numbers swell as escaped slaves join their ranks. Under the leadership of Spartacus, they make their way to southern Italy, where they will cross the sea and return to their homes.

The Birds

Sebastian Sholes

1963

Thousands of birds flock into a seaside town and terrorize the residents in a series of deadly attacks.

Hang 'em High

Sheriff Ray Calhoun

1968

Marshall Jed Cooper survives a hanging, vowing revenge on the lynch mob that left him dangling. To carry out his oath for vengeance, he returns to his former job as a lawman. Before long, he's caught up with the nine men on his hit list and starts dispensing his own brand of Wild West justice.

It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World

Lt. Matthews

1963

A group of strangers come across a man dying after a car crash who proceeds to tell them about the $350,000 he buried in California. What follows is the madcap adventures of those strangers as each attempts to claim the prize for himself.

In Cold Blood

Tex Smith

1967

After a botched robbery results in the brutal murder of a rural family, two drifters elude police, in the end coming to terms with their own mortality and the repercussions of their vile atrocity.

The Killers

Al

1946

Two hit men walk into a diner asking for a man called "the Swede". When the killers find the Swede, he's expecting them and doesn't put up a fight. Since the Swede had a life insurance policy, an investigator, on a hunch, decides to look into the murder. As the Swede's past is laid bare, it comes to light that he was in love with a beautiful woman who may have lured him into pulling off a bank robbery overseen by another man.

Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid

(in "The Killers") (archive footage)

1982

Juliet Forrest is convinced that the reported death of her father in a mountain car crash was no accident. Her father was a prominent cheese scientist working on a secret recipe. To prove it was murder, she enlists the services of private eye Rigby Reardon. He finds a slip of paper containing a list of people who are 'The Friends and Enemies of Carlotta'.

A Boy and His Dog

Preacher

1975

Set in the year 2024 in post-apocalyptic America, 18-year old Vic and his telepathic dog, Blood, are scavengers in the desolate wilderness ravaged by World War IV, where survivors must battle for food and shelter in the desert-like wasteland. Vic and Blood eke out a meager existence, foraging for food and fighting gangs of cutthroats.

Johnny Got His Gun

Mike Burkeman

1971

A young American soldier, rendered in pseudocoma from an artillery shell from WWI, recalls his life leading up to that point.