Roger Donoghue was an American actor who is best known for his roles as a boxing coach in On the Waterfront and as a trainer for famous actors like Marlon Brando and James Dean. He had a remarkable career that transitioned from boxing to acting and coaching.
Personal and Family Life
Roger E. Donoghue was born on November 20, 1930, in Yonkers, New York, to an Irish immigrant family. He was married to Fay Mowery Moore from 1963 until his death on August 20, 2006. Roger had a successful boxing career before moving into acting, where he trained well-known figures in the film industry.
Career
Before becoming an actor, Donoghue was a professional middleweight boxer, achieving an impressive record of twenty-five wins in twenty-seven matches. After a tragic fight led to the death of his opponent, George Flores, Donoghue transitioned to coaching and became known for teaching actors how to box for their films, working closely with directors like Elia Kazan and Nicholas Ray.
Death and Legacy
Roger Donoghue passed away on August 20, 2006, in Greenport, New York, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. He left behind a legacy in both the boxing and film industries, remembered for his contributions to actor training and his vibrant storytelling in artistic circles. His work influenced generations of performers, and he is often recalled for his signature phrases and coaching style.
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| On the Waterfront | Boxing Coach (uncredited) | 1954 |
| Beyond the Law | Detective | 1968 |