Spec O’Donnell was an American actor who is best known for Accidents Will Happen, Vamping Venus, and Kentucky Blue Streak. He was born on April 9, 1911, in Fresno, California, and passed away on October 14, 1986, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles.
Personal and Family Life
Spec O’Donnell’s birth name was Walter Davis O’Donnell. He was married to Inez Hixson from April 24, 1936, until their divorce. He earned the nickname ‘Spec’ because he had numerous freckles. O’Donnell was notable for playing young, spoiled characters in silent comedies and transitioned to various supporting roles in talkies.
Death and Legacy
Spec O’Donnell died on October 14, 1986, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles. His work in the film industry, especially during the silent film era and the transition to sound, left a mark on early American cinema, showcasing the evolution of character roles in film.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Earthworm Tractors | July 24, 1936 | Telegram Boy |
| Call of the Cuckoo | October 15, 1927 | Love’s Greatest Mistake |
| Exposure | August 20, 1932 | Inky |
| Pass the Gravy | January 7, 1928 | Ignatz |
| Don’t Tell Everything | July 2, 1927 | Asher Ginsberg alias The Maid |
| Dumb Daddies | February 3, 1928 | The Son |
| Dance Hall | December 13, 1929 | Newspaper Vendor |
| Speed Boys | November 12, 1924 | Spec |
| College Holiday | December 19, 1936 | Lafayette |
| Why Girls Say No | February 21, 1927 | Maxie Whisselberg |
| Held For Ransom | June 17, 1938 | Delivery Boy |
| A Pair of Tights | February 3, 1929 | The Kid |
| Show Girl in Hollywood | April 20, 1930 | Office Boy |
| Special Delivery | May 6, 1927 | Office Boy |
| Casey at the Bat | March 8, 1927 | Spec |
| Sparrows | September 19, 1926 | Ambrose |
| The Sophomore | August 24, 1929 | Joe’s Nephew |
| Parole Girl | March 4, 1933 | Magazine Subscription Salesman |
| Lilly Turner | May 13, 1933 | Delivery Boy (uncredited) |
| You’re Only Young Once | December 10, 1937 | Drowsy (uncredited) |
| Sweetstakes | July 10, 1931 | Jockey |
| Love Is on the Air | October 2, 1937 | Pinky |