Jack Norworth was an American actor best known for his roles in Frequency, The Fan, and The Princess Bride. Born as John Godfrey Knauff, he became famous not only for his acting but also for his contributions to music.
Personal and Family Life
Jack Norworth was born on January 5, 1879, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He had a complex personal life, having been married five times, including to the well-known performer Nora Bayes. He had two children with his wife Mary Johnson. Jack’s family background includes his father, Theodore Christian Knauff, and his mother, Louisa Hunt Pearson.
Career
In addition to acting, Jack was a talented songwriter. He is most famous for writing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in 1908, even though he had never attended a baseball game at that time. His other notable song is “Shine On, Harvest Moon,” which he co-wrote with his wife, Nora Bayes. Over his career, he made significant contributions to American music and theater.
Death and Legacy
Jack Norworth passed away on September 1, 1959, in Laguna Beach, California, due to a heart attack. Despite his death, his legacy continues through his timeless songs, particularly “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” which remains a favorite at baseball games across the country. In 1970, he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to music.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Southerner | 1945-04-30 | Dr. White |
| The Naggers at Breakfast | 1930-09-05 | Jack – the Henpecked Husband |
| The Naggers’ Day of Rest | 1931-01-05 | Jack |
| Queen of the Night Clubs | 1929-03-23 | Phil Parr |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self |