Max Showalter was an American actor who is best known for his roles in films like Sixteen Candles, The Music Man, and Leave It to Beaver. He also performed under the name Casey Adams.
Personal and Family Life
Born on June 2, 1917, in Caldwell, Kansas, Max Showalter developed an early interest in acting at a young age. He participated in numerous plays at the Pasadena Playhouse and made his Broadway debut in “Knights of Song.” He had a successful career in the entertainment industry as a composer, songwriter, and pianist, in addition to acting.
Career Highlights
Max Showalter had a prolific career in film, television, and theater. He notably played Horace Vandergelder in “Hello, Dolly!” over 3,000 times, performing alongside stars like Carol Channing and Ginger Rogers. Showalter appeared in over 1,000 television shows and had memorable roles in films such as How to Murder Your Wife and Niagara.
Death and Legacy
Max Showalter passed away on July 30, 2000, in Middletown, Connecticut, due to cancer. He left behind a rich legacy as a talented actor and performer who brought joy to audiences for many years.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Move Over, Darling | 1963-12-19 | Hotel Desk Clerk |
| Bus Stop | 1956-08-31 | Life Magazine Reporter |
| 10 | 1979-10-05 | Reverend |
| How to Murder Your Wife | 1965-01-26 | Tobey Rawlins |
| The Music Man | 1962-06-19 | Salesman On Train (uncredited) |
| Naked Alibi | 1954-10-01 | Det. Lt. Parks (as Casey Adams) |
| Sixteen Candles | 1984-05-04 | Grandpa Fred |
| It Happened to Jane | 1959-05-24 | Selwyn Harris |
| Elmer Gantry | 1960-07-07 | Deaf Man (uncredited) |
| The Twilight Zone | 1959-10-02 | Pat Riley |