Brad Dexter was an American actor known for his roles in The Magnificent Seven, The Asphalt Jungle, and House of Bamboo. He was recognized for his confident swagger and striking blue eyes, often portraying tough characters in crime dramas and westerns.
Personal and Family Life
Brad Dexter was born on April 9, 1917, in Goldfield, Nevada, to Serbian parents, Marko Tomo Soso and Ljubica (Violet) Samardzich. He was married three times, first to Peggy Lee, then to Mary Clare Bogdanovich, and finally to June Margaret Dyer. Throughout his life, Dexter remained childless.
Career Overview
In his early years, Dexter took part in amateur boxing and trained in theater at the Pasadena Playhouse. During World War II, he joined the Air Corps and performed in the Broadway tribute Winged Victory under his stage name Barry Mitchell. His career took off after John Huston cast him in The Asphalt Jungle, leading to a series of roles as a classic Hollywood tough guy.
Death and Legacy
Brad Dexter passed away on December 12, 2002, in Rancho Mirage, California, due to emphysema. He left behind a legacy as a talented supporting player in films and television, remembered for his distinctive performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Magnificent Seven | 1960-10-12 | Harry Luck |
| House of Bamboo | 1955-07-01 | Capt. Hanson |
| Von Ryan’s Express | 1965-06-23 | Sergeant Bostick |
| Macao | 1952-04-11 | Vincent Halloran |
| The Las Vegas Story | 1952-01-30 | Tom Hubler |
| Vice Raid | 1959-12-01 | Vince Malone |
| Winter Kills | 1979-05-11 | Captain Heller One |
| Last Train from Gun Hill | 1959-07-29 | Beero, Belden Foreman |
| 99 River Street | 1953-08-21 | Victor Rawlins |
| Taras Bulba | 1962-11-21 | Shilo |
| None But the Brave | 1965-02-24 | Sgt. Bleeker |
| Sinbad the Sailor | 1947-01-13 | Muallin |
| The Asphalt Jungle | 1950-05-12 | Bob Brannom |