Robert Parrish was an American actor who is best known for his work as a film editor and director in Hollywood, winning an Academy Award for his editing on Body and Soul and directing films like Saddle the Wind. Born on January 4, 1916, in Columbus, Georgia, he had a career that spanned several decades until his death on December 4, 1995.
Personal and Family Life
Robert Parrish was the son of actress Laura R. Parrish. He had two sisters, actresses Beverly and Helen Parrish, and a brother, Gordon Parrish, who also worked in the entertainment industry. He married Kathleen Thompson on September 18, 1942, and they faced the challenges of Hollywood life together.
Career Highlights
Parrish started his career as a child actor in the 1930s, appearing in notable films like City Lights and All Quiet on the Western Front. He gained recognition as an acclaimed film editor, winning an Oscar for Body and Soul. Later, he transitioned to directing in the 1950s and 1960s, with Saddle the Wind being one of his most notable works. He was also initially attached to direct Days of Wine and Roses before being replaced.
Death and Legacy
Robert Parrish passed away on December 4, 1995, in Southampton, Long Island, New York. He left a lasting impact on the film industry, not only through his successful editing and directing work but also through his autobiography, “Growing Up In Hollywood,” which received critical acclaim. His contributions to cinema are remembered through his diverse body of work and the accolades he received during his lifetime.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans | 1927-11-04 | Boy (uncredited) |
| Mr. Doodle Kicks Off | 1938-10-07 | 2nd Sophomore |
| Scandal Sheet | 1931-01-31 | Copy Boy |
| City Lights | 1931-02-01 | Newsboy (uncredited) |
| Riley the Cop | 1928-11-25 | Boy |
| Doctor Bull | 1933-09-22 | Teenager |
| Steamboat Round the Bend | 1935-09-06 | Boy |
| The Right to Love | 1930-12-27 | Willie |
| The Informer | 1935-05-09 | Young Soldier |
| All Quiet on the Western Front | 1930-04-29 | Schoolboy (uncredited) |
| Anna Christie | 1930-02-21 | Boy at Coney Island (uncredited) |
| Up the River | 1930-10-10 | Boy (uncredited) |
| Sodankylä ikuisesti: Elokuvan vuosisata | 2010-08-05 | Self |
| History Is Made at Night | 1937-03-05 | |
| The Miracle Man | 1932-04-01 | |
| The Big Trail | 1930-11-01 | Pioneer Boy (uncredited) |