Anthony Dexter was an American actor best known for his role in Valentino (1951), Captain John Smith and Pocahontas (1953), and Captain Kidd and the Slave Girl (1954). Born as Walter Reinhold Alfred Fleischmann on January 19, 1913, in Talmage, Nebraska, he gained fame for his striking resemblance to the legendary silent film star Rudolph Valentino.
Personal and Family Life
Dexter grew up on a farm in Talmadge, Nebraska, showing great talent in football which earned him a scholarship to St. Olaf’s College in Minnesota. He later pursued a degree in speech and drama at the University of Iowa. During World War II, he served as a sergeant in the Army Special Services and entertained troops in Europe.
Career
Despite being recognized for his remarkable performance as Valentino, Dexter’s film career saw him play roles similar to those of Valentino, though he struggled to maintain his stardom afterward. He also took part in notable stage productions such as “The King and I” and Broadway’s “The Three Sisters.” Later in life, he taught high school English, Speech, and Drama at Eagle Rock High School in Los Angeles.
Death and Legacy
Anthony Dexter passed away on March 27, 2001, in Greeley, Colorado, at the age of 88. His portrayal of Rudolph Valentino remains a significant part of his legacy, and he is remembered fondly by fans of classic cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Maidens of Outer Space | 1956-07-01 | Luther Blair |
| The Phantom Planet | 1961-12-13 | Herron |
| 12 to the Moon | 1960-02-03 | Dr. Luis Vargas |
| Captain John Smith and Pocahontas | 1953-11-20 | Capt. John Smith |
| He Laughed Last | 1956-08-12 | Dominic Rodríguez |
| Captain Kidd and the Slave Girl | 1954-05-20 | Capt. William Kidd |
| Three Blondes In His Life | 1961-12-31 | Charlie Walsh |
| The Brigand | 1952-06-24 | Captain Carlos Delargo / King Lorenzo |
| The Black Pirates | 1954-12-24 | Captain Zargo |
| Valentino | 1951-03-08 | Rudolph Valentino |
| Married Too Young | 1962-01-01 | Lech |
| Thoroughly Modern Millie | 1967-03-22 | Juarez |
| The Parson and the Outlaw | 1957-09-23 | Billy the Kid |
| Saturday Night Bath in Apple Valley | 1965-11-01 | |
| The Story of Mankind | 1957-11-08 | Christopher Columbus |