Donald Meek was an American actor known for his roles in films such as “Stagecoach,” “You Can’t Take It with You,” and “My Little Chickadee.” Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1878, he became a popular character actor in Hollywood.
Personal and Family Life
Donald Meek married Isabelle A. Walken in 1909, and they had one child together. Despite his on-screen persona as humble and meek, Meek had a colorful life prior to his acting career. He was involved in acrobatics and even served during the Spanish-American War and World War I. His acting journey began at a young age, and he traveled frequently for his work, which led to the loss of his Scottish accent.
Career
Meek was often cast in timid and eccentric roles, becoming a recognizable character actor in Hollywood. He had a notable run at MGM between 1940 and 1944 and was known for his memorable performances, including his role as Mr. Poppins in “You Can’t Take It with You.” Overall, he appeared in over 120 films, and his versatility allowed him to occasionally break away from typecasting.
Death and Legacy
Donald Meek passed away from leukemia on November 18, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 68. Although he never realized his dream of retiring to cultivate roses, his legacy endures through his numerous film credits. Fourteen years after his death, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Stagecoach | 1939-03-03 | Samuel Peacock |
| You Can’t Take It with You | 1938-09-01 | Mr. Poppins |
| My Little Chickadee | 1940-02-09 | Amos Budge |
| State Fair | 1945-08-29 | Hippenstahl |
| The Adventures of Tom Sawyer | 1938-02-11 | Sunday School Superintendent |
| Blondie Takes a Vacation | 1939-07-20 | Jonathan N. Gillis |
| Young Mr. Lincoln | 1939-06-09 | Prosecutor John Felder |
| Jesse James | 1939-01-14 | McCoy |
| The Toast of New York | 1937-07-22 | Daniel Drew |
| Captain Blood | 1935-12-26 | Dr. Whacker |