Rodd Redwing

Rodd Redwing was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Ten Commandments,” “The Mole People,” and “Shalako.” He was also known for his expertise as a trick shooter and firearms coach in Hollywood.

Personal and Family Life

Rodd Redwing was born Ulysses Webb Richardson Jr. on August 24, 1904, in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He had a unique upbringing; his father was a stage actor, and his mother came from the Chickasaw reservation in Oklahoma. Rodd was married once to Ericka Rosa “Nicki” Wagner from March 30, 1959, until his death in 1971. He attended various schools and excelled in sports during his youth, particularly in football.

Career Highlights

In addition to acting, Rodd served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was an experienced gunsmith with Stembridge Gun Rentals, contributing to realistic shooting scenes in films. He trained many well-known actors in firearm handling for Westerns and gained recognition for his incredible shooting skills. Among his accolades, he was a noted trick shooter, capable of hitting very small targets quickly.

Death and Legacy

Rodd Redwing passed away on May 30, 1971, in Los Angeles, California, from a heart attack while returning from Spain. His contribution to Hollywood as a trick shooter and as an actor in various notable films has left a lasting mark on the industry. Despite conflicting claims about his heritage, he is remembered as a significant figure in bringing more true-to-life depictions of Native Americans to the screen.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Rancho Notorious 1952-03-06 Rio
The Mole People 1956-12-01 Nazar
Shalako 1968-09-26 Chato’s Father
The Flame Barrier 1958-04-02 Waumi
The Pathfinder 1952-12-09 Chief Arrowhead
Buffalo Bill in Tomahawk Territory 1952-02-08 Running Deer
Charro! 1969-03-13 Lige
Creature from the Black Lagoon 1954-03-05 Luis (uncredited)
Key Largo 1948-07-16 John Osceola (uncredited)
Son of Geronimo 1952-11-06 Porico, Son of Geronimo