Celebrity Info
Barry Kelley was a character actor who enjoyed a remarkably busy and diverse career in both film and television, spanning from the late 1940s all the way through the late 1960s. Known for his strong screen presence and commanding physique, Barry Kelley often brought to life authoritative figures—judges, detectives, and police officers—thanks to his natural gravitas and distinctive look. His journey into acting began in 1947 when he landed a minor but memorable role in Elia Kazan’s film noir classic “Boomerang!” That small part opened the door to a flurry of opportunities. Just two years later, in 1949, Barry Kelley appeared in no fewer than eight films, followed by an impressive 11 roles in 1950 alone.
Among the standout performances during this early period were his portrayals of Judge Drake in “Knock on Any Door,” opposite Humphrey Bogart; Lt. Breach in “Too Late for Tears”; and Lt. Ditrich in John Huston’s acclaimed “The Asphalt Jungle”—all solid entries in the film noir genre that showcased Barry Kelley’s knack for playing tough, no-nonsense law enforcement types. As the 1950s progressed, Barry Kelley continued to build an extensive filmography, while also diving into the world of live television dramas. He made multiple appearances on popular anthology series such as “G.E. True Theater,” where he played the character ‘Fat Man’ across three episodes between 1955 and 1957, and earned four appearances as Tenny on “Schlitz Playhouse.”
By the time the 1960s rolled around, Barry Kelley began transitioning more into comedic roles, demonstrating his range as a character actor. In 1961, he took on the recurring role of Mr. Slocum in the lighthearted comedy series “Pete and Gladys.” But perhaps one of his most enduring television roles came when he portrayed Carol’s Dad on the beloved family sitcom “Mister Ed,” appearing in 11 episodes between 1962 and 1966—a run that marked his longest continuous TV engagement. It was a fitting evolution in Barry Kelley’s career, moving from gritty noir detective to warm-hearted father figure.
In the final stretch of his professional life, Barry Kelley returned to the big screen, bringing his seasoned presence to a pair of notable films. He played Police Sgt. in the 1968 Disney favorite “Love Bug” and delivered a memorable performance as Adm. Barnwell in the 1969 comedy “The Extraordinary Seaman.” These roles served as a dignified capstone to a long and varied career. Barry Kelley passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy defined by consistency, versatility, and an unmistakable screen presence that made him a familiar face across decades of American cinema and television.
So, when it comes to Barry Kelley’s filmography, one standout in terms of critical acclaim is definitely Too Late for Tears from 1949—that’s widely regarded as Barry Kelley’s highest rated movie. It really showcases his talent and remains a strong point in his career. On the other hand, if we look at the lower end of the spectrum, Robin and the Seven Hoods (1964) tends to be seen as Barry Kelley’s lowest rated film. While it had its moments, it just didn’t resonate as well with audiences or critics. Still, it’s interesting to see the range in Barry Kelley’s work across different eras of cinema. Barry Kelley definitely left his mark, even with the ups and downs.
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