Tom London was an American actor who is best known for his roles in countless western films and for appearing in more movies than any other actor in history.
Personal and Family Life
Tom London, born Leonard Thomas Clapham on August 24, 1889, in Louisville, Kentucky, had a long and varied career in film beginning in the 1920s. He had three wives: Frances McClellan, H. L. Munal, and Edith Stayart, the latter of whom he met on the set of “Nan of the North” in 1922. Besides acting, London also worked as a train engineer, builder, and draftsman before focusing on his film career.
Career Highlights
London was a versatile character actor primarily known for his work in westerns, where he played both good guys and villains. His career spanned several decades, during which he appeared in both major films and numerous B-movies. Despite his extensive film credits, he found it challenging to adapt when the popularity of B-westerns declined in the mid-1950s, leading to fewer roles in his later years.
Death and Legacy
Tom London passed away on December 5, 1963, in North Hollywood, California. He left behind a remarkable legacy as one of the most prolific actors in film history, with thousands of acting credits to his name. He was even listed in the Guinness Book of World Records for this achievement.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| American Empire | 1942-12-11 | Rider with Crowder’s Posse (uncredited) |
| The Secret Six | 1931-04-18 | Blackjacking Gangster (uncredited) |
| Lady for a Day | 1933-09-13 | Reception Guest (uncredited) |
| Friendly Persuasion | 1956-11-25 | Farmer on Front Line with Gard (uncredited) |
| Bad Man of Deadwood | 1941-09-05 | Townsman |
| Springtime in the Rockies | 1937-11-13 | Tracy |
| Santa Fe Stampede | 1938-11-18 | Marshal Jim Wood |
| Without Honors | 1932-01-02 | ‘Sholt’ Fletcher |
| Gold | 1932-09-15 | Sheriff |
| The Lawless Nineties | 1936-02-15 | Henchman Ward |
| The Nuisance | 1933-06-03 | Kelley’s Associate (uncredited) |
| Mystery Ranch | 1934-04-12 | Holdup man |
| Southward Ho! | 1939-03-19 | Phoney Union Sergeant |
| Trailing Double Trouble | 1940-10-10 | Henchman Kirk |
| The Yellow Rose of Texas | 1944-06-24 | Sheriff Allen |