Bill Catching was an American actor and stuntman best known for his work in iconic films and television shows. Born Jerome P. Catching on June 16, 1926, in Bexar County, Texas, he gained prominence in the entertainment industry through his extensive stunt work, particularly in Westerns.
Personal and Family Life
Bill Catching had a unique entry into Hollywood; at just sixteen, he hitchhiked to California with dreams of making it big. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he began working with horses, which led him to a career as a stuntman. Catching spent his later years in Arizona, where he raised prize horses on his ranch near Yuma.
Career
Catching’s career as a stuntman took off in the late 1940s, primarily in Western films and TV series. He was involved with production companies like ZIV Television Programs and was recognized for his roles in prominent shows. His work included being a stunt coordinator on famous series like The Wild Wild West and The Fall Guy. Catching’s dedication to the Western genre earned him a Golden Boot Award in 1994.
Death and Legacy
Bill Catching passed away from cancer at the age of 81 on August 24, 2007, at his home in Somerton, Arizona. His contributions to the stunt profession and Western films have left a lasting impact on the industry, and he is remembered for his significant role in shaping the genre.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Operation C.I.A. | 1965-09-08 | Frank Decker |
| North by Northwest | 1959-07-08 | Auction Attendant (uncredited) |
| Spartacus | 1960-10-13 | Soldier (uncredited) |
| Support Your Local Sheriff! | 1969-03-26 | Brawler at Emma’s |
| Ride Beyond Vengeance | 1966-01-01 | A Drunk |
| The Hanged Man | 1974-03-13 | Executioner |
| Westworld | 1973-08-15 | Saloon Brawler (uncredited) |
| Mayday at 40,000 Feet! | 1977-04-29 | Dowling |
| Heaven with a Gun | 1969-05-20 | Willie |
| Dirty Mary Crazy Larry | 1974-05-17 | Roy Bailes |
| Blazing Saddles | 1974-02-07 | Outlaw (uncredited) |
| The Slowest Gun in the West | 1960-05-07 | A Horseman |
| Mean Dog Blues | 1978-03-03 | Mr. Vogel |
| The Nebraskan | 1953-12-02 | Anderson |
| The Phynx | 1970-03-06 | Bruce |
| Macho Callahan | 1971-02-28 | Gruber |
| Gunfight at Comanche Creek | 1963-11-06 | Deputy Harris |
| The Man from Laramie | 1955-08-19 | Mule Driver (uncredited) |
| Johnny Cool | 1963-10-02 | |
| 5 Against the House | 1955-06-10 | Cop (uncredited) |
| Dick Powell’s Zane Grey Theatre | 1956-10-05 | Newt Murdock |
| Law of the Plainsman | 1959-10-01 | Potter |
| Honey West | 1965-09-17 | Paul Wycherly |
| Johnny Ringo | 1959-10-02 | Kurt Neilson |