E.G. Marshall

Biography

E.G. Marshall (June 18, 1914 – August 24, 1998) was an American actor known for his distinguished work in film, television, theatre, and radio. With a career lasting more than six decades, he became recognized for his intelligent, authoritative screen presence and memorable performances in films such as Twelve Angry Men (1957), The Chase (1966), The Left-Handed Gun (1958), and Superman II (1980).

Early Life

E.G. Marshall was born Everett Eugene Grunz on June 18, 1914, in Owatonna, Minnesota. He studied at Carleton College before pursuing acting. He began his career in theatre and became associated with the Group Theatre in New York during the 1930s.

Theatre Career

Marshall was a highly respected stage actor and appeared in numerous Broadway productions. He became a founding member of the Actors Studio and was known for his work in serious dramatic roles.

His acclaimed stage performances included:

• The Crucible
• Waiting for Godot
• The Iceman Cometh
• Long Day's Journey into Night

He won a Tony Award for Best Actor for his performance in The Price (1969).

Film Career

Marshall made his film debut in the 1940s and became one of Hollywood's most reliable character actors. His notable films include:

• The Left-Handed Gun (1958)
• Twelve Angry Men (1957)
• The Chase (1966)
• The Bedford Incident (1965)
• Nixon (1995)
• Superman II (1980)
• Absolute Power (1997)

Twelve Angry Men

One of Marshall's most famous roles was Juror No. 4 in Sidney Lumet's courtroom drama Twelve Angry Men (1957). His calm, logical performance became one of the film's highlights and contributed to its reputation as a classic.

The Chase (1966)

Marshall appeared in Arthur Penn's drama The Chase (1966), starring Marlon Brando, Jane Fonda, and Robert Redford. He played Val Rogers, a wealthy businessman whose influence shapes the conflicts and tensions within a small Texas town.

Television and Radio Career

Marshall was also a major figure in television. His television credits include:

• The Bold Ones: The Senator (1970–1971)
• The Defenders (1961–1965)
• Murder, She Wrote
• The Outer Limits
• The Twilight Zone

He won an Emmy Award for his performance in The Bold Ones: The Senator.

Marshall was also famous as the longtime host of the radio program CBS Radio Mystery Theater from 1974 to 1982.

Personal Life

E.G. Marshall was married twice and had five children. He was known for his professionalism and dedication to acting throughout his long career.

Death

E.G. Marshall died on August 24, 1998, in Bedford, New York, at the age of 84, due to lung cancer.