Born in Huntington Park, CA. Father was a Methodist minister, mother Vice Principal at John Adams Junior High School in Los Angeles. Retired from the U.S. Navy as a commander after 27 years. Had his own TV show in L.A. called Freedom Forum, ran for U.S. Congress 46th district in 1946. Graduated from Huntington Park High School and USC. Last appearance was in Funny Girl as the Judge. One son, John.

Filmography