Fred Carson was an American actor who is best known for his work in films and television as a stuntman, notably doubling for stars like Victor Mature and Clint Walker. He had a diverse career that included acting, trick riding, and even artistry.
Personal and Family Life
Fred Carson was born on November 5, 1923, in Harlingen, Texas. He learned to handle horses while growing up and participated in rodeos before transitioning to Hollywood. He married Freda on June 6, 1952, and they had one child together. Fred’s brother, Ted Smile, was also involved in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the family’s connection to performance arts.
Career
In the mid-1940s, Fred Carson began his career as a stuntman, showcasing his skills in various physical performances including fights and falls. His expertise extended beyond stunts; he also taught famous actors like Kirk Douglas and Ricardo Montalban how to handle firearms. Carson was recognized for his versatility as a performer and also pursued painting and jewelry making as artistic endeavors.
Death and Legacy
Fred Carson passed away on July 31, 2001, due to a heart attack in North Hollywood, California, at the age of 77. His contributions to Hollywood as a stuntman and actor left a lasting impression, particularly with his unique skills that elevated the performances of many leading actors of his time.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Deadly Harvest | 1972-09-26 | McAndrews |
| Crosscurrent | 1971-11-19 | Victor Shoddy |
| The Last of the Secret Agents? | 1966-05-25 | Zoltan’s Bodyguard (uncredited) |
| Wall of Noise | 1963-09-04 | Adam Kasper |
| Tarzan and the Slave Girl | 1950-06-23 | |
| Hellfire | 1949-05-29 | |
| The Wild One | 1953-12-30 | Cyclist |
| The Quick Gun | 1964-04-01 | |
| Frenchie | 1950-12-25 | Barfly (uncredited) |
| Gun Duel In Durango | 1957-05-01 | Posse Member (uncredited) |
| Thunder Bay | 1953-05-21 | Oilman (uncredited) |
| The Square Jungle | 1955-12-30 | |
| Batman | 1966-01-12 | The Joker |