Robert Blake was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “In Cold Blood,” “Baretta,” and “Joe Dancer.” He had a long and varied career in film and television, spanning from childhood to adulthood.
Personal and Family Life
Robert Blake was born Michael James Vijencio Gubitosi on September 18, 1933, in Nutley, New Jersey. He experienced a difficult childhood, which he later reflected upon with anger and resentment. He was married three times, and he had two children with his second wife, Sondra Blake, and one daughter with his third wife, Bonnie Bakley.
Career Overview
Blake began acting as a child in the “Our Gang” series and later appeared in various roles throughout the 1940s and 1950s. While his career had ups and downs, he became well-known for his incredible portrayal of real-life murderer Perry Smith in the film “In Cold Blood.” His work on the television show “Baretta” solidified his status as a household name.
Death and Legacy
Robert Blake passed away on March 9, 2023, in Los Angeles, California, due to heart disease. His complex life and career were marked by both artistic success and personal struggles, leaving a complicated legacy that continues to be discussed in Hollywood.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Lost Highway | 1997-01-15 | Mystery Man |
| The Greatest Story Ever Told | 1965-04-09 | Simon the Zealot |
| The Treasure of the Sierra Madre | 1948-01-15 | Mexican Boy Selling Lottery Tickets (uncredited) |
| In Cold Blood | 1967-12-15 | Perry Smith |
| Baretta | 1975-01-17 | Det. Tony Baretta |
| Money Train | 1995-11-21 | Donald Patterson |
| PT 109 | 1963-06-26 | Charles ‘Bucky’ Harris |
| Apache War Smoke | 1952-09-25 | Luis Herrera |
| Blood Feud | 1983-04-25 | Jimmy Hoffa |
| Of Mice and Men | 1981-11-29 | George Milton |