Ted Mapes

Ted Mapes was an American actor known for his work in films and television, particularly in westerns. He was recognized as a talented stuntman and double for famous actors like Gary Cooper and James Stewart.

Personal and Family Life

Ted Mapes was born John Tylor Mapes on November 25, 1901, in St. Edward, Nebraska. He married Ruth Ensign on October 12, 1931, and they remained together until his passing in 1984. Ted grew up on a wheat and cattle ranch, where he learned skills that later helped him in his acting career.

Career

Mapes started his career as a grip in the film industry and quickly moved up to become a stuntman, working on many popular westerns. He was particularly famous for doubling Gary Cooper, appearing in 17 films with him, as well as performing stunts for James Stewart across multiple projects over the years. Ted appeared in numerous serials and films, often in minor roles, while also being known for his incredible stunt work.

Death and Legacy

Ted Mapes passed away on September 9, 1984, in Burbank, California. His contributions to the film industry, especially in stunt work, were recognized when he was inducted into the Stuntmen’s Hall of Fame in 1978. Mapes left behind a legacy of dedication to his craft and a storied career that influenced many actors and stunt performers.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Night Passage 1957-07-24 Leary
Dick Tracy’s G-Men 1939-09-02 Agent Dan Murchison
The Ranger and the Lady 1940-07-30 Henchman Kramer
The Monster and the Ape 1945-04-20 Joe Butler
Texas Trouble Shooters 1942-06-12 Henchman Slim
The Lone Ranger Rides Again 1939-02-25 Settler
The Silent Code 1935-11-20 First Mountie Constable
Daredevils of the Red Circle 1939-06-10 Man
Wall Street Cowboy 1939-08-06 Henchman
Zorro’s Fighting Legion 1939-12-16 Tall Henchman in Armory
Three Texas Steers 1939-05-12 Henchman
In Old Caliente 1939-06-19 Tall Lead Henchman
The Arizona Kid 1939-09-28 McBride Henchman
King of the Royal Mounted 1940-09-19 Blake – Gang Pilot
Timber War 1935-11-20 Logger (uncredited)
The Gunfighter 1950-06-23 Pete’s Pal (uncredited)
Winchester ’73 1950-07-12 Bartender (uncredited)
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance 1962-04-13 Highpockets (uncredited)
Trails of the Wild 1935-07-31 Mountie
Under Texas Skies 1940-09-29 Deputy
The Border Legion 1940-12-05 Miner
Law Men 1944-04-25 Curly Balou, Stage Driver
Adventures of Red Ryder 1940-06-28 Stage Driver
Sergeant York 1941-09-27 Soldier in Trench (uncredited)
North West Mounted Police 1940-10-22 Constable Palmer
Black Eagle 1948-09-16 Sam
Rocky Mountain Rangers 1940-05-24 Stage Driver
Terry and the Pirates 1940-04-12 Henchman
The Iron Claw 1941-08-15 Henchman Slim
In Old Monterey 1939-08-14 Henchman
Vengeance of the West 1942-08-16 Henchman Mason
The Wild Frontier 1947-09-30 Henchman
El Dorado Pass 1948-10-13 Dodd
Tonto Basin Outlaws 1941-10-09 Henchman Ricks
Land of Hunted Men 1943-03-26 Henchman Piebald
Dead or Alive 1944-11-09 Luke Brown
Frontier Feud 1945-11-24 Slade Burnett
Drifting Along 1946-01-26 Henchman Ted
Under Arizona Skies 1946-05-27 Red Connors
Daughter of Don Q 1946-