You know, when you think about the incredible journey of Herb Vigran, one number really stands out—350. That’s how many film and TV roles Herb Vigran managed to rack up over the course of his remarkable career, a true testament to his enduring presence in Hollywood’s Golden Age. Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Herb Vigran first made his mark not on screen, but on the airwaves, appearing in hundreds of radio shows alongside legends like Jack Benny and Bob Hope. It was there that Herb Vigran began building the kind of versatile reputation that would eventually carry him into decades of television and movie work.
With his distinct look—balding head, thick eyebrows—Herb Vigran became something of a go-to guy for those small but memorable parts: cops, bartenders, jurors, repairmen, judges—you name it. Chances are, even if you’ve never heard the name Herb Vigran, you’ve definitely seen him. He popped up everywhere, from classic hits like “I Love Lucy” and “Dragnet” to later favorites such as “Remington Steele” and “Dallas.” Herb Vigran was the ultimate Mr. Everyman, the kind of actor who didn’t need top billing to leave an impression.
Sadly, Herb Vigran passed away in 1986 after battling cancer, but his body of work continues to resonate with fans and filmmakers alike. And here’s one of the more bizarre footnotes in entertainment history: Herb Vigran’s final role actually came after his death. A few months following his passing, he appeared posthumously as an agent in the 1987 comedy satire “Amazon Women on the Moon.” It’s a strange, almost poetic end to the story of Herb Vigran—a man who, though rarely a household name, became a familiar face in millions of homes.
When it comes to Herb Vigran’s filmography, one standout in terms of critical reception is Benji (1974), which happens to be his highest rated movie. Fans and critics alike have shown a lot of appreciation for this heartwarming classic, and it really shines in Herb Vigran’s body of work. On the other end of the spectrum, The Star (1952) holds the spot as his lowest rated film. While every actor has their ups and downs across different roles, Herb Vigran’s career still reflects a solid range of performances. Still, if you’re looking at ratings alone, Benji definitely takes the lead compared to The Star. Overall, Herb Vigran brings a memorable presence to the screen, even across films with varying levels of acclaim.