Clyde McLeod

Clyde McLeod was an American actor who is best known for his work as a movie extra in numerous films and television series, including “The Towering Inferno,” “Columbo,” and “Blazing Saddles.”

Personal and Family Life

Clyde McLeod was born on December 30, 1917, in Fallbrook, California. He came from a family with a long history in entertainment; his mother, Emily Stickney, was a bareback rider in circuses, and his father, Tex McLeod, worked in vaudeville shows. McLeod was deeply influenced by his family’s tradition in show business, stating that he pursued acting because it was his mother’s wish. He lived much of his life with Patricia Enns, another movie extra from the 1950s and 60s.

Career

McLeod’s career began in 1938, and over the next forty-seven years, he worked tirelessly as an extra in the film industry. He had the honor of being directed by renowned filmmakers like Charlie Chaplin and Frank Capra. Although McLeod was never primarily interested in becoming a leading actor, he appeared in countless films, often in uncredited roles, and built a successful career as a talented supporting cast member.

Death and Legacy

Clyde McLeod passed away on November 8, 2003, in Costa Mesa, California, due to natural causes. With a career spanning nearly five decades, he left behind a legacy as a dedicated and hardworking film extra. McLeod’s contributions to cinema reflect his passion for acting and the strong family tradition that shaped his life.

Filmography

Title Role Year
Hart to Hart Guest (uncredited) 1984
My Favorite Year Club Dancer 1982
Bret Maverick Cattleman (uncredited) 1982
The Champ Boxing Match Spectator (uncredited) 1979
Roots: The Next Generations Townsman (uncredited) 1979
The Big Fix Casino Patron (uncredited) 1978
House Calls Mourner (uncredited) 1978
The Love Boat Passenger (uncredited) 1977
Kojak Detective Vendor, Concerned Citizen (uncredited) 1974–1977
Sherlock Holmes in New York Hotel Clerk (uncredited) 1976
Columbo Club Patron, Conference Guest, Exhibition Guest (uncredited) 1971–1976
Ellery Queen Museum Guest (uncredited) 1975
The Towering Inferno Party Guest (uncredited) 1974
The Terminal Man Orderly (uncredited) 1974
Blazing Saddles Townsman (uncredited) 1974