Dan White

Born:March 25, 1908

Place of Birth:Falmouth, Florida, USA

Died:July 7, 1980

Known For:Acting

Biography

Dan White, a talented actor and mechanic, was born on March 25, 1908, in the quaint town of Falmouth, Florida, near the Suwannee River. Growing up as one of 12 siblings, Dan was introduced to the world of show business at the young age of 14 in Lakeland. His passion for entertainment led him to run away from home to travel across the South, performing in various shows including tent, minstrel, vaudeville, and theater productions.

During his early years in the industry, Dan shared the stage with his brother Willard for nine years at Tampa's historic Rialto Theater. It was during this time that he crossed paths with the talented Frances Langford, who he encouraged to pursue a career in Hollywood. In 1933, Dan married Matilda "Tilda" Mae Spivey, solidifying his personal life amidst his budding career in show business.

Despite facing financial challenges during the Great Depression, Dan's determination to succeed in Hollywood never wavered. In 1935, he made the bold decision to move to California with his wife, embarking on a journey that required them to stop in various cities to earn money along the way. Dan's skills as an auto mechanic proved invaluable during their travels, showcasing his resourcefulness and versatility.

Throughout his career, Dan's passion for both acting and fixing cars remained evident. His multifaceted talents came to light during the filming of "To Kill a Mockingbird" in 1962 when he swiftly resolved a car issue on set, demonstrating his ability to handle challenges with ease. This experience highlighted his unique blend of artistic and practical skills, making him a valuable asset both on and off the screen.

Dan's commitment to his craft and his unwavering determination to succeed in the competitive world of Hollywood set him apart as a dedicated professional. His journey from a small town in Florida to the bustling streets of California is a testament to his resilience and passion for the entertainment industry. Dan White's legacy lives on through his memorable performances and his remarkable ability to overcome obstacles, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of working with him.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Gone with the Wind

Minor Role (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.

To Kill a Mockingbird

Mob Leader (uncredited)

1962

Scout Finch, 6, and her older brother Jem live in sleepy Maycomb, Alabama, spending much of their time with their friend Dill and spying on their reclusive and mysterious neighbor, Boo Radley. When Atticus, their widowed father and a respected lawyer, defends a black man named Tom Robinson against fabricated rape charges, the trial and tangent events expose the children to evils of racism and stereotyping.

Touch of Evil

Customs Officer (uncredited)

1958

When a car bomb explodes on the American side of the U.S./Mexico border, Mexican drug enforcement agent Miguel Vargas begins his investigation, along with American police captain Hank Quinlan. When Vargas begins to suspect that Quinlan and his shady partner, Menzies, are planting evidence to frame an innocent man, his investigations into their possible corruption quickly put himself and his new bride, Susie, in jeopardy.

Red River

Laredo (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.

The Grapes of Wrath

Poor Man Walking with Woman in Transient Camp (uncredited)

1940

Tom Joad returns to his home after a jail sentence to find his family kicked out of their farm due to foreclosure. He catches up with them on his Uncle’s farm, and joins them the next day as they head for California and a new life... Hopefully.

Duel in the Sun

Ed (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.