Joe Palma was an American actor, best remembered for his roles in Little Miss Broadway, Hot Stuff, and Scheming Schemers. Born on March 17, 1905, in New York City, Palma had a diverse career in film and television until his passing on August 15, 1994, in Poway, California.
Personal and Family Life
Joe Palma was originally named Provenzano and worked as a mortician in his family’s funeral home in Manhattan before moving to Hollywood in the 1930s. He was married to Marjorie Ann Ries for over 50 years. Palma’s last years in the film industry were spent assisting actor Jack Lemmon, during which he had small credited roles in Lemmon’s films.
Career Highlights
In addition to acting, Joe Palma was a stuntman for The Three Stooges, serving as a stand-in for Shemp Howard after Howard’s death. He was known for being filmed from the back while old footage of Shemp was used for the front shots. His acting career included various uncredited roles, showcasing his versatility and talent in numerous films.
Death and Legacy
Joe Palma passed away on August 15, 1994, leaving behind a legacy in the film industry. His contributions as both an actor and a stuntman left a mark on classic American cinema, especially with his work alongside iconic figures like The Three Stooges.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Coast Guard | 1939-08-04 | Sailor (uncredited) |
| Mr. Smith Goes to Washington | 1939-10-19 | Hoodlum (uncredited) |
| Blondie Brings Up Baby | 1939-11-08 | 2nd Dogcatcher (uncredited) |
| Little Miss Broadway | 1947-06-19 | Detective |
| Hot Stuff | 1956-09-06 | Shemp (uncredited) |
| Scheming Schemers | 1956-10-04 | Shemp (uncredited) |
| Some Like It Hot | 1959-03-19 | (uncredited) |
| The Apartment | 1960-06-21 | Office Maintenance Man (uncredited) |
| Good Neighbor Sam | 1964-07-22 | Joe the Mailman (uncredited) |