Robert Keith

Biography

Robert Keith was an American stage, film, and television actor known for his strong character performances. He appeared in numerous Hollywood productions during the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s and was the father of actor Brian Keith.

Early Life

Robert Keith was born Rolland Keith Richey on February 10, 1890, in Fowler, Indiana. He began performing with a stock theatre company as a teenager and developed experience as both an actor and writer.

Theatre Career

Keith built an extensive stage career before becoming widely known in Hollywood. He appeared in productions on Broadway and performed in notable plays including Yellow Jack, The Children's Hour, and Mr. Roberts. He also originated the role of Doc in the Broadway production of Mr. Roberts.

As a writer, he attracted attention with his play ** The Tightwad**, which appeared in New York in 1927. His theatrical experience eventually led to opportunities in Hollywood.

Film Career

Keith became a familiar character actor in American films, particularly during the 1950s. He appeared in movies such as My Foolish Heart (1949), Fourteen Hours (1951), Somebody Loves Me (1952), Battle Circus (1953), Young at Heart (1954), Love Me or Leave Me (1955), Guys and Dolls (1955), Written on the Wind (1956), and The Lineup (1958).

The Wild One

One of Keith's best-known roles was Sheriff Harry Bleeker in ** The Wild One (1953)**.

Directed by László Benedek and starring Marlon Brando, the film follows motorcycle gang leader Johnny Strabler as he and his gang enter a small town. Keith played the local sheriff and the father of Kathie Bleeker, portrayed by Mary Murphy.

The role established Keith as a convincing authority figure and became one of his most recognizable film performances.

Guys and Dolls

Keith reunited with Marlon Brando in ** Guys and Dolls (1955)**, in which he played Lieutenant Brannigan.

This was notable because Keith twice portrayed a policeman opposing characters played by Brando—first in The Wild One and later in Guys and Dolls.

Television Career

Keith also became an active television performer during the 1950s and 1960s. He appeared in programs including The Fugitive, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, and The Twilight Zone.

His final screen appearance was in the famous Twilight Zone episode “The Masks” (1964), in which he played Jason Foster, an elderly New Orleans patriarch.

Personal Life

Keith was married several times. He was the father of actor Brian Keith, who later became a successful Hollywood performer.

He was also briefly married to actress Peg Entwistle, who later became known for her tragic death in Hollywood.

Death

Robert Keith died on December 22, 1966, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 76, according to the commonly cited biographical record.