Tom Hatten was an American actor who is best known for Spies Like Us, The Secret of NIMH, and Get Smart. He was a beloved television personality, especially recognized for his work in children’s programming.
Personal and Family Life
Born on November 14, 1926, in Jamestown, North Dakota, Tom Hatten pursued a career in entertainment from an early age. He graduated from the Pasadena Playhouse School for Performing Arts in California. At the time of his passing, he was survived by his longtime partner, Pete Menifee, along with several nieces and nephews.
Career Highlights
Hatten is best known for hosting a popular “Popeye the Sailor Man” cartoon show on KTLA 5 in Los Angeles from the 1950s through the early 1980s. He also hosted the “Family Film Festival,” where he would share trivia and interact with viewers through letters, showcasing his passion for engaging with his audience.
Death and Legacy
Tom Hatten passed away on March 16, 2019, in California. His contributions to children’s television and his roles in various films have left a lasting impact on audiences, earning him a special place in the hearts of many fans.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| I Saw What You Did | 1965-07-21 | Gerald Nyes |
| Promise Him Anything | 1975-05-15 | O’Brien |
| Spies Like Us | 1985-12-06 | General Miegs |
| Sweet Charity | 1969-02-25 | Man in Tandem (uncredited) |
| The Secret of NIMH | 1982-06-17 | Farmer Fitzgibbons (voice) |
| Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. | 1964-09-25 | |
| Wings | 1990-04-19 | Mr. Conley |
| Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction | 1997-05-25 | Nathan Dunbar (segment “Epitaph”) |
| Hogan’s Heroes | 1965-09-17 | Lieutenant Edward H. Martin |
| Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman | 1993-09-12 | Gen. Ralph Marshall |