He was a well-known character actor, often recognized for his roles in many classic Westerns—particularly on CBS’ Gunsmoke, where he brought the beloved character Newly O’Brien to life. Over the years, his performances left a lasting impression, and fans of the genre frequently mention him when discussing standout supporting actors. Before he made his mark on screen, he actually got his start in vaudeville, honing his craft in live entertainment. His big break into films came in 1938 with a role in You Can’t Take It with You, which set the stage for a long and memorable career. He had a family that meant a great deal to him, including a son named Buck and a daughter named Faydean. Throughout it all, he remained grounded, letting his work speak for itself—and yes, people still talk about him today, especially those who appreciate the golden age of Westerns.
He showed up in literally dozens of Westerns over the course of his career, and people always recognized him by that signature bowler hat he wore. He had a real presence on screen, and honestly, you couldn’t miss him—especially with that hat. He became kind of an icon, really, thanks to his consistent roles and that distinct look he brought to every film. He just had a way of standing out, even among all the cowboys and outlaws. He wasn’t just another face in the crowd; he made an impression, and he did it time and time again.