Don Stannard was an American actor best known for his roles in Dick Barton, Detective (1948), Dick Barton Strikes Back (1949), and Dick Barton at Bay (1950). He was born in 1916 in Westcliffe-on-Sea, Essex, England, UK and died on July 9, 1949, in a car accident.
Personal and Family Life
Donald Gordon Stannard was the son of a banker and received training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). In 1937, he starred alongside Barbara Allen in an instructional health film called ‘The Perfect Briton.’ Later, he joined the Royal Navy during World War II, which paused his acting career. After his service, Stannard returned to the screen, earning recognition for his role as a secret agent.
Death and Legacy
Don Stannard’s life was tragically cut short when he died in a car accident on July 9, 1949, while returning from a cast party for Dick Barton at Bay. His untimely death led to the cancellation of planned sequels for the Dick Barton series. Stannard is remembered for his contribution to British cinema, particularly in the action-hero genre.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dick Barton at Bay | 1950-10-02 | Dick Barton |
| Dick Barton Strikes Back | 1949-04-01 | Dick Barton |
| Dick Barton: Special Agent | 1948-03-01 | Dick Barton |
| I’ll Turn to You | 1946-06-17 | Roger Meredith |
| Hold That Kiss | 1938-05-13 | Captain in Moving Picture |
| Bridal Suite | 1939-05-26 | Best Man |
| Death in High Heels | 1947-07-18 | Detective Charlesworth |
| Pink String and Sealing Wax | 1945-11-22 | John Bevan |
| Caesar and Cleopatra | 1945-12-11 | Roman Officer (uncredited) |
| Don Chicago | 1945-08-06 | Ken Cressing |