James Dunn was an American actor who is best known for his roles in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Baby Take a Bow, and Bright Eyes.
Personal and Family Life
James Howard Dunn was born on November 2, 1901, in New York City. He had three wives throughout his life: Edna Rush, Frances Gifford, and Edna O’Lier. Dunn’s marriages and relationships were impacted by the challenges he faced in his acting career.
Career
Dunn began his career in stage performances and vaudeville before transitioning to silent films. He gained prominence at Fox Film Corporation in the 1930s, particularly for his charming roles in films with Shirley Temple. Despite his early success, Dunn struggled with alcohol, which affected his career, resulting in a decline in roles during the late 1930s and 1940s.
Death and Legacy
James Dunn passed away on September 1, 1967, in Santa Monica, California, following abdominal surgery. He is remembered for his engaging performances and for winning an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| A Tree Grows in Brooklyn | 1945-02-28 | Johnny Nolan |
| Baby Take a Bow | 1934-06-30 | Eddie Ellison |
| The Living Ghost | 1942-08-11 | Nick Trayne |
| Bright Eyes | 1934-12-28 | Loop Merritt |
| Stand Up and Cheer! | 1934-05-04 | Jimmy Dugan |
| The Ghost and the Guest | 1943-04-19 | Webster Frye |
| Government Girl | 1943-11-05 | Sergeant Joe Blake |
| Bad Girl | 1931-08-13 | Eddie Collins |
| The Oscar | 1966-03-04 | TV executive |
| Killer McCoy | 1947-12-01 | Brian McCoy |