Layne Tom Jr. was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Charlie Chan at the Olympics (1937), The Hurricane (1937), and Charlie Chan’s Murder Cruise (1940).
Personal and Family Life
Born Richard Layne Tom Jr. on June 29, 1927, in Los Angeles, California, he was married to Marilynn Chow until his passing in 2015. He was the father of two children, including Kiana Tom. Layne was an alumnus of Polytechnic High School and the University of Southern California, and he proudly served in the Navy during World War II.
Career
Layne Tom Jr. had a successful career as an actor, particularly noted for his performances in several films during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Later in life, he became a prominent architect, co-founding a firm with Jan Truskier. His acting career included memorable roles, and he often expressed fondness for specific films he starred in.
Death and Legacy
Layne Tom Jr. passed away on January 14, 2015, in Huntington Beach, California, although the cause of his death was not disclosed. He left behind a legacy as both an actor and an architect, and his contributions to the arts and architecture are remembered by his family and those who knew him.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Charlie Chan at the Olympics | 1937-05-21 | Charlie Chan Jr |
| Charlie Chan in Honolulu | 1938-12-30 | Tommy Chan |
| Mr. Smith Goes to Washington | 1939-10-19 | Boy Ranger (uncredited) |
| Charlie Chan’s Murder Cruise | 1940-05-02 | Willie Chan |
| Layne Tom, Jr: The Adventures of Charlie Chan, Jr. | 2006-12-05 | Self |
| The Hurricane | 1937-11-09 | Mako |
| The Legacy of Charlie Chan | 2006-06-20 | Self |
| The Barbara Stanwyck Show | 1960-09-19 | Cantonese Clerk |