Boris Karloff was an American actor who is best known for his role as the Frankenstein Monster in classic horror films and for characters in movies like “The Mummy” and “The Body Snatcher.”
Personal and Family Life
Boris Karloff was born William Henry Pratt on November 23, 1887, in Camberwell, London. He had a diverse family background, being the son of Edward John Pratt Jr. and Eliza Sarah Millard. Throughout his life, he was married six times and had one daughter named Sara Karloff.
Career
Karloff’s acting career began after he emigrated to Canada in 1909, where he adopted the stage name Boris Karloff. He gained fame for his portrayal of horror characters, especially starting with “Frankenstein” in 1931, which led to a string of successful roles in horror films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. He also appeared in Broadway productions and hosted various TV shows in the 1950s, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Death and Legacy
Boris Karloff passed away on February 2, 1969, from pneumonia, at the age of 81. He is remembered as a kind and warm-hearted actor who left a lasting impact on horror cinema, influencing many actors and filmmakers in the genre. A plaque commemorates his contributions at Guildford Crematorium in Surrey, England.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Bride of Frankenstein | 1935-04-20 | The Monster |
| Frankenstein | 1931-11-21 | The Monster |
| The Mummy | 1932-12-22 | Imhotep |
| Son of Frankenstein | 1939-01-13 | The Monster |
| The Body Snatcher | 1945-05-25 | John Gray |
| How the Grinch Stole Christmas! | 1966-12-18 | Narrator / The Grinch (voice) |
| Targets | 1968-08-15 | Byron Orlok |