John Calvert was an American actor best known for Dark Venture, Search for Danger, and Gold Fever. He was not only an accomplished actor but also recognized as the world’s oldest performing magician.
Personal and Family Life
Born on August 5, 1911, in New Trenton, Indiana, John Calvert began his magical career at a young age and later transitioned into acting and directing. He was married twice, first to Ann Cornell and then to Tammy, with whom he spent his later years until his death. His passion for magic led him to perform over 20,000 shows throughout his life, even continuing to tour at the age of 90.
Career Highlights
Calvert’s career spanned decades, starting on stage at the age of eight. He gained fame as a magician and appeared in over 20 films, including a notable role as a hand-double for Clark Gable in the 1941 film Honky Tonk. He achieved a lifelong ambition by performing at the London Palladium on his 100th birthday and was inducted into the Society of American Magicians Hall of Fame.
Death and Legacy
John Calvert passed away on September 27, 2013, in Lancaster, California. His long and varied career in magic and film has left a lasting impact, inspiring many in the fields of entertainment and illusion. His unforgettable performances and dedication to his craft will be remembered by fans and fellow magicians alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Mark of the Whistler | 1944-10-09 | Eddie Donnelly |
| Devil’s Cargo | 1948-04-01 | Michael ‘The Falcon’ Watling |
| Appointment with Murder | 1948-11-24 | Michael Watling, the Falcon |
| Search for Danger | 1949-04-15 | Michael ‘The Falcon’ Waring |
| The Return of the Durango Kid | 1945-04-19 | Leland ‘Lee’ Kirby |
| Mat Magic | 1971-01-01 | |
| Gold Fever | 1952-06-15 | John Bonar |
| Dark Venture | 1956-02-01 | John Kenyon |
| Ten Cents a Dance | 1945-06-07 | Breezy Walker |
| Bombardier | 1943-05-14 | Calvert the Magician |
| It’s About the Second Coming | 1980-12-28 | Narrator (voice) |
| A Tribute to Houdini | 1987-01-01 | |
| The Sacred Symbol | 1984-01-01 | John Harvey (World Traveller) |