Arthur Shields was an Irish-American actor known for his roles in films such as The Quiet Man, How Green Was My Valley, and The Plough and the Stars. Born as Lewis Arthur Shields on February 15, 1896, in Dublin, Ireland, he became a notable figure in the film industry with over 100 appearances.
Personal and Family Life
Arthur Shields was married three times. His first wife was Bazie McGee, with whom he had a child. After her death, he married Una Mary O’Connor in 1943, and they had one child before her passing in 1950. His last marriage was to actress Laurie Bailey in 1955, and they remained together until his death in 1970.
Career
Shields began his acting career in the Dublin Abbey Theatre, where he was influenced by his brother, Barry Fitzgerald. After gaining experience in theater, he transitioned to film, and his acting often included portraying clergy members, which became a recurring role throughout his career. Notably, he played Pádraig Pearse in The Plough and the Stars, a film that reflected his deep commitment to Irish nationalism.
Death and Legacy
Arthur Shields passed away on April 27, 1970, in Santa Barbara, California, due to emphysema. His contributions to film and theater, especially in portraying nuanced characters related to Irish culture and history, have left a lasting impact on the arts. He is remembered for both his performances and his dedication to the Irish nationalist movement.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Quiet Man | 1952-07-21 | Rev. Cyril ‘Snuffy’ Playfair |
| Red Light | 1949-09-30 | Father Redmond |
| Three Strangers | 1946-01-28 | Prosecutor |
| The Verdict | 1946-11-23 | Rev. Holbrook |
| World for Ransom | 1954-01-31 | Sean O’Connor |
| How Green Was My Valley | 1941-10-28 | Mr. Parry |
| Easy Come, Easy Go | 1947-03-07 | Timothy Mike Donovan |
| The Plough and the Stars | 1936-12-26 | Padraic Pearse |
| Gentleman Jim | 1942-11-14 | Father Burke |