Russell Wade was an American actor who is best known for Shoot to Kill, The Body Snatcher, and Sundown Riders. He appeared in many films during the World War II era and later transitioned into a business career.
Personal and Family Life
Russell Wade was born on June 21, 1917, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He moved to California in the late 1920s and attended Hollywood High School, where he began his acting career on stage. He was married to Janie from 1936 until her death in 1999, and they had two children together, Joanie and Jeff. Joanie predeceased him.
Career Overview
Wade had a prolific acting career, featuring in over 60 films, primarily during the 1940s. He portrayed various cadet and military roles, a reflection of the times. After retiring from acting in 1948, he shifted his focus to business and real estate in Palm Springs, California, where he also developed the El Dorado Country Club.
Death and Legacy
Russell Wade passed away on December 9, 2006, in Riverside, California. He left a lasting legacy in both film and the community, having contributed significantly to Palm Springs’ golf culture. Wade received accolades, including a star on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars and a Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Body Snatcher | 1945-05-25 | Donald Fettes |
| The Ghost Ship | 1943-12-16 | Third Officer Tom Merriam |
| The Iron Major | 1943-10-31 | Private Manning |
| Andy Hardy Meets Debutante | 1940-07-05 | Party Guest (uncredited) |
| Shoot to Kill | 1947-03-15 | George ‘Mitch’ Mitchell |
| Renegade Girl | 1946-12-25 | Jerry Long |
| The Bamboo Blonde | 1946-07-15 | Patrick Ransom, Jr. |
| A Game of Death | 1945-11-23 | Robert Trowbridge |
| Marine Raiders | 1944-07-11 | Lt. Tony ‘Junior’ Hewitt |
| I’ll Wait for You | 1941-05-16 | Nightclub Extra (uncredited) |