Ken Drake was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Twilight Zone,” “Bonanza,” and “The Wild Wild West.” He had a diverse career spanning over six decades, known for his versatility in playing multiple characters in various television shows.
Personal and Family Life
Ken Drake was born on November 20, 1921, in Enid, Oklahoma. He served as a medic in the Navy during World War II and the Korean War. While studying acting at the Pasadena Playhouse, he met his future wife, Sylvie, whom he married on April 29, 1952. They had two children before divorcing in 1972. His son, Robert, is a Producing Director at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego, and his daughter, Jessica, is an actress and dialect coach.
Career
Drake appeared in over 60 television shows throughout his career. He became well-known for his ability to transform into various characters, often playing roles that were vastly different even within the same series. Some of his notable performances include portraying Native American characters in Westerns and starring in classic plays like Shakespeare’s “Othello.” Alongside acting, his ex-wife, Sylvie, was a respected theater critic for the Los Angeles Times.
Death and Legacy
Ken Drake passed away from a heart attack on January 30, 1987, in Springfield, California, at the age of 65. His legacy continues through his children, who have made significant contributions to the performing arts, reflecting his influence in the industry. He is remembered for his impressive range as an actor and his dedication to theater and television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Crime and Punishment USA | 1959-11-01 | Hendricks |
| I Bury the Living | 1958-07-01 | Bill Honegger |
| The Bigamist | 1953-12-03 | Court Clerk |
| The New Interns | 1964-06-01 | Parking Lot Attendant |
| The Twilight Zone | 1959-10-02 | Man |
| Destry | 1964-02-14 | The Deputy |
| The Rat Patrol | 1966-09-12 | Lt. Klundt |
| One Step Beyond | 1959-01-20 | Gas Man |
| Tombstone Territory | 1957-10-16 | Frank Masters |
| Law of the Plainsman | 1959-10-01 | Bill Downs |
| The Outer Limits | 1963-09-16 | The Judge |
| The Beverly Hillbillies | 1962-09-26 | First Psychiatrist |
| Petticoat Junction | 1963-09-24 | Mr. McGill |
| Here’s Lucy | 1968-09-23 | Butler |
| The Aquanauts | 1960-09-14 | Elmer Burnside |
| The Wild Wild West | 1965-09-17 | General Crocker |