Elisha Cook Jr. was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Maltese Falcon,” “The Killing,” and “Rosemary’s Baby.” He was recognized for his unique talent in playing intense and quirky characters in various films and television shows.
Personal and Family Life
Elisha Cook Jr. was born on December 26, 1903, in San Francisco, California. He was married three times; his last wife was Elvira Ann (Peggy) McKenna, whom he married in 1971. Cook had no children and was known to have several siblings, including Theodore Hoff Cook and three half-siblings.
Career
Cook’s acting career began in the mid-1930s with small roles in college-themed films. He became famous for portraying neurotic characters and played significant roles in well-known classics, transitioning from innocent to dark roles efficiently. Over the years, he became a staple in the film noir genre and built a reputation as a reliable character actor.
Death and Legacy
Elisha Cook Jr. passed away on May 18, 1995, in Big Pine, California, under undisclosed circumstances. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances that influenced many filmmakers and actors. His unique portrayals have solidified his place in the history of American cinema, particularly within the noir genre.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Killing | 1956-06-06 | George Peatty |
| Rosemary’s Baby | 1968-06-12 | Mr. Nicklas |
| The Big Sleep | 1946-08-23 | Harry Jones |
| The Maltese Falcon | 1941-10-18 | Wilmer Cook |
| Shane | 1953-04-23 | Frank ‘Stonewall’ Torrey |
| Love Crazy | 1941-05-23 | Joe (elevator operator) |
| The Haunted Palace | 1963-08-28 | Gideon Smith / Micah Smith |
| I Wake Up Screaming | 1941-10-31 | Harry Williams |