Harry Cording

Born:April 25, 1891

Place of Birth:Wellington, Somerset, England, UK

Died:September 1, 1954

Known For:Acting

Biography

Hector William "Harry" Cording, a British character actor known for his imposing six-foot height and stocky build, left a lasting mark on Hollywood from the 1920s to the 1950s. Born on April 26, 1891, Cording's journey from his upbringing and education in England to settling in Los Angeles showcased his passion for the silver screen. His career took off in 1925, where he began portraying a variety of characters, often being cast as thugs, villains' henchmen, and policemen due to his intimidating presence.

One of Cording's most memorable performances was as the villainous Dickon Malbete, Captain of the Guard in the classic film "Adventures of Robin Hood" alongside the legendary Errol Flynn. His portrayal of Thamal, the hulking henchman to Bela Lugosi's character in the 1934 film "Black Cat," further solidified his reputation as a versatile character actor who could bring depth to any role he took on.

During his time as a contract player at Universal Pictures in the 1940s, Cording graced the screen in various horror films, including a small part in "The Wolf Man." His talent and versatility were also recognized in the film "Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" starring Basil Rathbone in 1939, leading to appearances in seven out of the twelve Universal Studios Sherlock Holmes films where Rathbone took on the iconic role.

Cording's ability to captivate audiences with his on-screen presence and bring authenticity to his characters made him a sought-after actor in Hollywood. Despite often being cast in supporting or bit parts, his contributions to the film industry were invaluable, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.

On September 1, 1954, Harry Cording passed away, leaving behind a rich tapestry of performances that showcased his talent and dedication to his craft. His work remains a testament to his passion for acting and his ability to breathe life into the diverse array of characters he portrayed throughout his illustrious career.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Wolf Man

Wykes (uncredited)

1941

After his brother's death, Larry Talbot returns home to his father and the family estate. Events soon take a turn for the worse when Larry is bitten by a werewolf.

The Grapes of Wrath

Deputy (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.

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.

East of Eden

Bouncer (uncredited)

1955

In the Salinas Valley in and around World War I, Cal Trask feels he must compete against overwhelming odds with his brother for the love of their father. Cal is frustrated at every turn, from his reaction to the war, how to get ahead in business and in life, and how to relate to his estranged mother.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Guard (uncredited)

1939

Paris, France, 1482. Frollo, Chief Justice of benevolent King Louis XI, gets infatuated by the beauty of Esmeralda, a young Romani girl. The hunchback Quasimodo, Frollo's protege and bell-ringer of Notre Dame, lives in peace among the bells in the heights of the immense cathedral until he is involved by the twisted magistrate in his malicious plans to free himself from Esmeralda's alleged spell, which he believes to be the devil's work.

Mutiny on the Bounty

Soldier (uncredited)

1935

Fletcher Christian successfully leads a revolt against the ruthless Captain Bligh on the HMS Bounty. However, Bligh returns one year later, hell bent on revenge.

The Adventures of Robin Hood

Dickon Malbete

1938

Robin Hood fights nobly for justice against the evil Sir Guy of Gisbourne while striving to win the hand of the beautiful Maid Marian.

For Whom the Bell Tolls

Man Who Flails the Mayor

1943

Spain in the 1930s is the place to be for a man of action like Robert Jordan. There is a civil war going on and Jordan—who has joined up on the side that appeals most to idealists of that era—has been given a high-risk assignment up in the mountains. He awaits the right time to blow up a crucial bridge in order to halt the enemy's progress.

You Only Live Once

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.