John Quade was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Every Which Way But Loose,” “Any Which Way You Can,” and “High Plains Drifter.” He had a distinctive presence in films and television, often playing tough or intimidating characters.
Personal and Family Life
Born as John William Saunders III on April 1, 1938, in Kansas City, Kansas, Quade showed interests in sports and clubs during his time in high school. He graduated from Highland Park High School in 1956 and later attended Washburn University. He worked for the Santa Fe Railway before moving to California, where he started his acting career after a talent scout discovered him.
Career
Quade’s acting career gained momentum after his television debut in 1968 with “Bonanza.” He became well-known for his roles in Clint Eastwood’s films and participated in many television series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. His memorable characters often included villains or rough characters, notably Cholla, the biker leader in Eastwood’s comedies.
Death and Legacy
John Quade passed away on August 9, 2009, from a heart attack in Rosamond, California, at the age of 71. He left behind a legacy as a character actor with a unique look and a significant impact on action and western films.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Bad Company | 1972-10-08 | Nolan |
| The Sting | 1973-12-25 | Riley |
| And You Thought Your Parents Were Weird | 1991-11-15 | Walter Kotzwinkle |
| Power | 1980-01-14 | Loading Dock Foreman |
| Every Which Way but Loose | 1978-12-16 | Cholla, The Biker Leader |
| High Plains Drifter | 1973-04-19 | Jake Ross |
| The Outlaw Josey Wales | 1976-06-30 | Comanchero Leader |
| La Bamba | 1987-07-24 | Bartender |
| Any Which Way You Can | 1980-12-17 | Cholla |
| Roots | 1977-01-23 | Sheriff Biggs |