Roy Benson was an American actor best known for The Lady Objects, Sweet and Low-Down, and his significant contributions to the world of magic.
Personal and Family Life
Roy Benson, originally named Edward Emerson Ford McQuaid, was born on January 16, 1914, in Courbevoie, France. He was the son of Dora Ford, who was part of the vaudeville group The Four Fords and The Ford Sisters. Roy’s family had a rich entertainment background, with relatives involved in the performing arts, including his cousin Jack Curtis and his niece Liane Curtis.
Career
Roy had a diverse career that spanned various artistic fields. He was not only a talented magician but also a musician and professor. Starting as a cinematographer, Roy decided to focus on magic, where he set trends that would influence future comic/magicians. His work included building the monster for the film The Flesh Eaters in 1964.
Death and Legacy
Roy Benson passed away on December 6, 1977, due to emphysema, after battling alcoholism for many years. His impact on the realm of magic was significant, paving the way for many performers who followed in his footsteps.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Lady Objects | 1938-10-12 | George Martin |
| Sweet and Low-Down | 1944-09-21 | Skeets McCormick |