Benjie Bancroft was an American actor who is best known for his roles in television westerns and films where he played authoritative characters such as police officers. His career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in numerous productions, establishing a reputation for his professionalism.
Personal and Family Life
Benjie Bancroft was born on February 8, 1919, in Superior, Nebraska. He had a brief marriage that ended in divorce before enlisting in the Army Air Corps to avoid being drafted. He later married June Fenley, and together they enjoyed a long life filled with shared experiences in the entertainment industry.
Career Highlights
Bancroft’s early career involved working as a test flyer in aviation, eventually leading him to Hollywood during a time when military authenticity was crucial in films. By the 1950s, he transitioned into television, making a name for himself in westerns and becoming friends with the Nelson family, earning roles on their show. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Bancroft often portrayed police officers, utilizing his motorcycle skills and on-screen presence to secure steady roles.
Death and Legacy
Benjie Bancroft passed away on March 7, 2007, in Huntington Beach, California, leaving behind a rich legacy in the film industry. He is remembered for his versatility and ability to adapt to evolving trends in cinema, having maintained a long-lasting respect for his craft. His extensive body of work continues to be appreciated by fans of classic films and television.
Filmography
Title | Role | Year |
---|---|---|
Falcon Crest | Jail Office Worker | 1982–1988 |
Star Trek III: The Search for Spock | Vulcan Priest (uncredited) | 1984 |
Swing Shift | Workman (uncredited) | 1984 |
Hart to Hart | Party Guest | 1979–1984 |
Max Dugan Returns | Policeman at Station | 1983 |
Tales of the Gold Monkey | Clipper Ship Crewman (uncredited) | 1983 |
Hill Street Blues | Courtroom Spectator (uncredited) | 1981 |
History of the World: Part I | Roman (uncredited) | 1981 |
Dynasty | Mourner | 1981 |