Paul Burke was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Naked City,” “12 O’Clock High,” and “The Thomas Crown Affair.” His career spanned several decades during which he appeared in various films and television shows.
Personal and Family Life
Born on July 21, 1926, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Paul Burke was the son of Martin Burke, a former prizefighter and nightclub owner. He attended prep schools before moving to Hollywood to pursue acting, studying at the Pasadena Playhouse. He was married twice; first to Alice Louise Wikan, with whom he had three children, and later to actress Lyn Peters in 1979.
Career Highlights
Burke rose to fame in the 1960s, appearing in several popular TV shows, including “Naked City” where he played Detective Adam Flint. His role earned him two Emmy nominations. He also starred in films like “Valley of the Dolls,” despite its infamous reputation. Although he enjoyed success on television, later roles were fewer, especially after a legal issue in 1989.
Death and Legacy
Paul Burke passed away on September 13, 2009, in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 83 due to leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He is remembered for his contributions to television and film, leaving behind a body of work that still resonates with audiences today.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Thomas Crown Affair | 1968-06-26 | Det. Lt. Eddy Malone |
| Valley of the Dolls | 1967-12-27 | Lyon Burke |
| Crowhaven Farm | 1970-11-24 | Ben Porter |
| Psychic Killer | 1975-12-01 | Lieutenant Jeff Morgan |
| Once You Kiss a Stranger… | 1969-11-12 | Jerry Marshall |
| Daddy’s Gone A-Hunting | 1969-05-13 | Jack Byrnes |
| Francis in the Navy | 1955-08-24 | Tate |
| South Sea Woman | 1953-06-27 | Ensign at Court-martial |
| The Disembodied | 1957-08-25 | Tom Maxwell |
| Della | 1964-08-08 | Barney Stafford |