Chester Morris was an American actor who is best known for roles in “Boston Blackie,” “The Big House,” and “Alibi.” He was a versatile performer whose career spanned seven decades, making a significant impact in both film and theater.
Personal and Family Life
Chester Morris, born John Chester Brooks Morris on February 16, 1901, in New York City, was the son of actor William Morris and comedienne Etta Hawkins. He married twice, first to Suzanne Kilborn, with whom he had two children, and later to Lillian Kenton, with whom he had one child. Morris had two siblings, Adrian and Gordon Morris.
Career
Morris began his acting career in theater, making his Broadway debut as a teenager in 1918. He gained fame during the transition from silent films to talkies, earning an Academy Award nomination for his role in “Alibi.” He became particularly well-known for his portrayal of Boston Blackie in a series of films in the 1940s, which helped to revive his career after a period in B-movies.
Death and Legacy
Chester Morris passed away on September 11, 1970, in New Hope, Pennsylvania, from an overdose of barbiturates. At the time of his death, he was involved in a stage production and was reportedly in good spirits, leaving behind a legacy as a talented and influential actor in film history. His portrayal of Boston Blackie remains one of his most recognizable roles, symbolizing his contribution to the detective genre.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Alibi | 1929-04-20 | Chick Williams |
| The Big House | 1930-06-14 | John Morgan |
| Boston Blackie Goes Hollywood | 1942-11-05 | Boston Blackie |
| Confessions of Boston Blackie | 1941-12-08 | Boston Blackie |
| The Great White Hope | 1970-10-11 | Pop Weaver |
| Blind Alley | 1939-05-11 | Hal Wilson |
| Pursuit | 1935-08-09 | Mitch Mitchell |
| Public Hero Number 1 | 1935-05-31 | Jeff Crane |
| Five Came Back | 1939-06-23 | Bill Brooks |
| Route 66 | 1960-10-07 | Mr. Hull |
| The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson | 1962-10-01 | Self |