Jack Durant was an American actor who is best known for Journey Into Fear, Four Jacks and a Jill, and Music Is Magic.
Personal and Family Life
Born on April 12, 1905, in New York City, New York, Jack Durant was part of an acrobatic team in his early years. He left school at the age of 9 to pursue show business, performing alongside tumbler Bud Aarons. He was married to Molly O’Day from 1934 until their divorce in 1951, and together they had four children.
Career Highlights
Durant was recognized as the tall and handsome half of the comedy duo Mitchell & Durant. After his partnership ended in the late 1930s, he returned to Broadway in “Yokel Boy,” where he was later replaced by Phil Silvers. He gained further fame performing at the London Palladium, breaking attendance records during his sixteen-week run.
Death and Legacy
Jack Durant passed away on January 7, 1984, in Miami, Florida, with the cause of death undisclosed. His contributions to both stage and film left a lasting impression, and he is remembered for his artistic talents and performances in musical films.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Journey into Fear | 1943-01-07 | Gogo Martel |
| No Orchids for Miss Blandish | 1948-04-15 | Nightclub Comic |
| Music Is Magic | 1935-11-01 | Eddie Harper |
| Tramp, Tramp, Tramp! | 1942-04-02 | Jed |
| Four Jacks and a Jill | 1942-01-23 | Noodle McArdle |
| 365 Nights in Hollywood | 1934-12-11 | Clarence |
| She Learned About Sailors | 1934-06-28 | Eddie |
| The Singing Kid | 1936-04-10 | Babe |
| Stand Up and Cheer! | 1934-05-04 | Senator Short |
| Spring Tonic | 1935-06-27 | Cambridge Nasher |
| The Bellboy | 1960-07-20 | |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self |