John Crawford

Biography

John Crawford, a formidable and robust character actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his commanding presence and versatile performances. Born Cleve Richardson on September 13, 1920, in Colfax, Washington, Crawford's journey to stardom was as unconventional as his on-screen portrayals. Discovered by a Warner Bros. scout while pursuing a degree in drama at the University of Washington, Crawford's initial screen test may have been unsuccessful, but it paved the way for a remarkable career that spanned over four decades.

His early days in Hollywood saw him taking on various roles, from laborer at RKO to building sets at Circle Theater in Los Angeles. Through sheer determination and talent, Crawford eventually found himself in front of the camera, captivating audiences with his portrayal of tough and villainous characters. Columbia Pictures recognized his potential, casting him in secondary roles in westerns before he transitioned to more prominent parts in films like "Ordre de tuer" (1958) and "Un homme pour le bagne" (1960) filmed in the UK.

Returning to the States in the early 1960s marked a new chapter in Crawford's career, where he became a sought-after actor in both movies and television series. His filmography boasts memorable roles such as the ill-fated chief engineer in "L'aventure du Poséidon" (1972), the affable Tom Iverson in "La fugue" (1975), and the bumbling mayor of San Francisco in "L'inspecteur ne renonce jamais" (1976). Crawford's versatility shone through as he portrayed characters ranging from hard-nosed police chiefs to amiable old mine hands, leaving a lasting impact on each project he undertook.

In addition to his film work, Crawford made notable appearances on television, showcasing his talent in a variety of genres. From "The Lone Ranger" (1949) to "Dynastie" (1981), his guest roles left a lasting impression on audiences. Notable recurring parts as Sheriff Ep Bridges in "La famille des collines" (1971) and Capt. Parks on "Sergent Anderson" (1974) further solidified his status as a respected character actor in the industry.

John Crawford's legacy extends beyond his on-screen achievements, as he was a beloved father to four daughters and a cherished grandfather to two grandchildren. His passing at the age of 90 in 2010, following complications from a stroke, marked the end of an era in Hollywood. Yet, his contributions to film and television continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his memory lives on through his timeless performances.