Warren Oates was an American actor best known for his roles in films like “The Wild Bunch,” “Two-Lane Blacktop,” and “Dillinger.” He gained fame as a character actor in the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s, known for his unique style and intensity.
Personal and Family Life
Warren Oates was born on July 5, 1928, in a small town called Depoy, Kentucky. He was the son of Bayless Earl Oates and Sarah Alice Mercer. Oates had three children and was married multiple times, including to Judy A. Jones at the time of his death. He began his education in Louisville and later attended the University of Louisville before serving in the U.S. Marines.
Career Highlights
Oates moved to New York in 1954 to pursue acting and started working on the television game show “Beat the Clock.” He soon transitioned to acting in live dramas and then started landing roles in Westerns in Hollywood. His breakout role was in “Ride the High Country” (1962), and he frequently worked with acclaimed director Sam Peckinpah, which helped him gain recognition in Hollywood.
Death and Legacy
Warren Oates passed away from a heart attack on April 3, 1982, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 53. His last two films were released posthumously and dedicated to him, honoring his impactful contributions to film and television. Oates is remembered as one of Hollywood’s most talented character actors, and his performances continue to be celebrated.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Wild Bunch | 1969-06-19 | Lyle Gorch |
| Badlands | 1974-01-05 | Holly’s Father |
| In the Heat of the Night | 1967-08-02 | Deputy Sam Wood |
| Stripes | 1981-06-26 | Sgt. Hulka |
| The Border | 1982-01-29 | Red |
| Amore, piombo e furore | 1978-08-04 | Matthew Sebanek |
| Blue Thunder | 1983-02-05 | Braddock |
| 1941 | 1979-12-14 | Col. ‘Madman’ Maddox |
| There Was a Crooked Man… | 1970-09-18 | Floyd Moon |
| Two-Lane Blacktop | 1971-07-07 | G.T.O. |