Sam Levene

Sam Levene was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Guys and Dolls,” “The Sunshine Boys,” and “The Killers.” Born on August 28, 1905, in Russia, he moved to the United States at a young age and built a successful career on Broadway and in films.

Personal and Family Life

Sam Levene was born as Samuel Levine and later changed his name when he started his acting career. He was married to Constance Kane from 1953 until their divorce, and they had one child together. Throughout his life, Levene was known for often playing characters that were idealistic or intellectual. His unique style made him stand out on stage and screen.

Career Highlights

Levene’s Broadway debut occurred in 1927, and he quickly became recognized for his role as Nathan Detroit in the original production of “Guys and Dolls.” Although he struggled with singing, he created memorable performances that delighted audiences. He also starred in Neil Simon’s “The Sunshine Boys” and received a Tony Award nomination for his role in “The Devil’s Advocate.”

Death and Legacy

Sam Levene passed away from a heart attack on December 28, 1980, in New York City at the age of 75. He left behind a legacy as a talented performer whose contributions to theater and film are still remembered today. His unique roles and performances have influenced many aspiring actors and continue to resonate with fans of classic American cinema.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Sweet Smell of Success 1957-07-04 Frank D’ Angelo
Action in the North Atlantic 1943-06-12 Abel ‘Chips’ Abrams
God Told Me To 1976-10-22 Everett Lukas
Designing Woman 1957-05-16 Ned Hammerstein
Crossfire 1947-08-15 Samuels
Brute Force 1947-07-16 Louie Miller #7033
Dial 1119 1950-11-03 John D. Faron
After the Thin Man 1936-12-25 Lt. Abrams
Shadow of the Thin Man 1941-11-21 Lieutenant Abrams
The Killers 1946-08-30 Lt. Sam Lubinsky
The Purple Heart 1944-02-25 Lt. Wayne Greenbaum
The Opposite Sex 1956-11-15 Mike Pearl
The Babe Ruth Story 1948-09-16 Phil Conrad
Guilty Bystander 1950-04-20 Captain Tonetti
Golden Boy 1939-09-05 Siggie
The Mad Miss Manton 1938-10-21 Lieutenant Brent
Last Embrace 1979-05-04 Sam Urdell
Grand Central Murder 1942-05-01 Inspector Gunther
…And Justice for All 1979-10-19 Arnie
Gung Ho! 1943-12-20 Leo ‘Transport’ Andreof
Whistling in Brooklyn 1943-12-01 Creeper
Slaughter on 10th Avenue 1957-09-01 Howard Rysdale
Killer McCoy 1947-12-01 Happy
The Big Street 1942-08-13 Horsethief
Three Men on a Horse 1936-11-21 Patsy
Destination Unknown 1942-10-09 Victor, Elena’s Aide
I Dood It 1943-09-01 Ed Jackson
Act One 1963-12-26 Richard Maxwell
Three Sailors and a Girl 1953-11-23 Joe Woods
Kathy O’ 1958-09-24 Ben Melnick
Married Bachelor 1941-10-16 Cookie Farrar
The Talk of Hollywood 1929-12-10 Film Buyer
The Royal Family 1977-11-09 Oscar Wolfe
Boomerang! 1947-02-28 Morning Record’s Reporter Dave Woods
The Shopworn Angel 1938-07-15 ‘Leer’
A Likely Story 1947-04-18 Louie
Sunday Punch 1942-05-08 Roscoe
With These Hands 1950-06-15 Alexander Brody
A Dream of Kings 1969-12-15 Cicero
The Money 1976-05-31 Lou Maurice
Such Good Friends