Donald Calthrop was an American actor, born on April 11, 1888, in London, England, UK. He is best known for his roles in The Phantom Light, Blackmail, and The Man Who Lived Again. Calthrop was a character actor known for portraying nervous, edgy characters throughout his career.
Personal and Family Life
Donald Calthrop was married to Margaret Helen Ledward, and the couple had four children together before they divorced. He was also the nephew and grandson of well-known actor Dion Boucicault. His family heritage contributed to his strong presence in the acting world.
Career Highlights
Calthrop began his stage career in 1906 at the Comedy Theatre in London, which set the foundation for his future in film. He was recognized for his ability to play diverse characters, including bullies, cowards, and blackmailers, and he collaborated with famous director Alfred Hitchcock on three early films. His strong screen presence and distinctive diction marked his performances, making him memorable in the film industry.
Death and Legacy
Donald Calthrop passed away on July 15, 1940, in London, England, due to a heart attack. His legacy continues through the diverse range of films he contributed to, showcasing his talent as a character actor. Despite his challenges, including personal tragedies, his work remains appreciated by film and theater enthusiasts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Blackmail | 1929-07-28 | Tracy |
| The Man Who Changed His Mind | 1936-09-11 | Clayton |
| Fire Over England | 1937-03-05 | Don Escobal |
| Murder! | 1930-07-31 | Ion Stewart |
| Scrooge | 1935-11-26 | Bob Cratchit |
| Number Seventeen | 1932-07-18 | Nora’s Escort Brant |
| The Phantom Light | 1935-08-05 | David Owen |
| Rome Express | 1932-10-31 | Poole |
| I Was A Spy | 1933-09-04 | Cnockhaert |
| Let George Do It! | 1940-07-12 | Frederick Strickland |
| Elstree Calling | 1930-02-06 | Himself / Petruchio in Taming of the Shrew |
| Major Barbara | 1941-05-14 | Peter Shirley |