George Mathews was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Man with the Golden Arm,” “The Last Wagon,” and “A Streetcar Named Desire.” With a career spanning over four decades, he was known for his tough-guy persona both on stage and in films.
Personal and Family Life
George Joseph Mathews was born on October 10, 1911, in New York City. He was married to Mary Crittenden Haynsworth from September 6, 1951, until his death on November 7, 1984. Despite his tough roles, Mathews was known for being friendly and intelligent, enjoying activities like chess outside of his acting career.
Career
Mathews started his acting career in the early 1930s, joining the WPA Theatre Program after failing to get a job with the US Post Office. He made his Broadway debut in “Processional” in 1937 and became known for his roles as military types and tough characters. Throughout the years, he appeared in numerous films and television series, showcasing his versatility in both serious and comedic roles.
Death and Legacy
George Mathews passed away on November 7, 1984, in Caesars Head, South Carolina, due to heart disease. He left behind a legacy as a skilled actor capable of portraying both intimidating figures and humorous characters. His contributions to theater and film continue to be remembered by audiences and critics alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Gunfight at the O.K. Corral | 1957-05-30 | Griffin Saloonkeeper John Shanssey |
| Pat and Mike | 1952-06-13 | Sylvester ‘Spec’ Cauley |
| Heller in Pink Tights | 1960-03-01 | Sam Pierce |
| City Beneath the Sea | 1953-04-21 | Captain Meade |
| Yankee Buccaneer | 1952-09-16 | Chief Petty Officer Link |
| Sally and Saint Anne | 1952-07-01 | Father Kennedy |
| Up in Arms | 1944-02-17 | Blackie |
| The Great Diamond Robbery | 1954-01-29 | Duke Fargoh |
| The Hole | 1962-11-08 | (voice) |
| The Eve of St. Mark | 1944-05-22 | Sgt. Ruby |
| The Great John L. | 1945-05-25 | John Flood |
| Last of the Comanches | 1953-02-01 | Romany O’Rattigan |
| X Marks the Spot | 1944-04-01 | |
| The Man with the Golden Arm | 1955-12-26 | Williams |
| Stage Door Canteen | 1943-06-24 | Marine Sergeant |
| Androcles and the Lion | 1967-11-15 | Centurion |
| The Corn Is Green | 1945-03-29 | Trap Driver |
| The Proud Ones | 1956-05-15 | Dillon |
| The Open Door: The Story Of Foreman Jim Baxter And His Family | 1945-01-01 | Monte |
| The Front Page | 1945-11-11 | |
| The Last Wagon | 1956-09-21 | |
| Seven Keys to Baldpate | 1946-07-07 | |
| Going Home | 1971-12-01 | Malloy |
| Un acte d’amour | 1953-12-17 | Henderson |
| Winterset | 1959-10-26 | Shadow |
| Route 66 | 1960-10-07 | |
| Naked City | 1958-09-30 | |
| The Honeymooners | 1955-10-01 | |
| Alfred Hitchcock Presents | 1955-10-02 | Sam Dunleavy |
| Have Gun, Will Travel | 1957-09-14 | |
| M Squad | 1957-09-20 | Bricker |
| Robert Montgomery Presents | 1950-01-30 | Bill Meyers |
| Suspense | 1949-01-06 | Police Detective |
| Omnibus | 1952-11-09 | |
| Perry Mason | 1957-09-21 | Mike Flint |
| Studio One | 1948-11-07 | George |
| Hallmark Hall of Fame | 1951-12-24 | Shadow |
| Glynis | 1963-09-25 | |
| Adventures in Paradise | 1959-10-05 | Holt |
| Dr. Kildare | 1961-09-27 | Dr. Willard Ryson |
| The Defenders | 1961-09-16 | Detective Al Marks |