Canadian actor Joby Baker began his journey into television back in 1952, making a brief but memorable appearance on “The Red Skelton Hour,” a comedy variety show headlined by the iconic clown himself. It was a modest start, but one that set the stage for what would become a steady and varied career. By 1959, Joby Baker had transitioned into film, taking on a supporting role in the lighthearted summer romance “Gidget,” which starred the charming Sandra Dee. The film’s success led to two sequels, both of which featured Joby Baker—first in the musical romp “Gidget Goes Hawaiian,” and later in the international love story “Gidget Goes to Rome.” These roles helped solidify Joby Baker’s presence in Hollywood during a vibrant era of American cinema.
Throughout this period, Joby Baker remained highly active on the small screen, becoming a familiar face across numerous popular TV series. He made appearances on suspenseful anthology programs like “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” where his performances added depth to the eerie storytelling, and also brought charm to lighter fare such as “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” a beloved family sitcom. In 1965, Joby Baker took part in the Elvis Presley-starring musical romantic comedy “Girl Happy,” a role that turned out to be personally significant—he met his first wife there, actress Joan Blackman. Though their marriage lasted only two years, it coincided with another milestone: Joby Baker landing the lead role in the radio station-centered sitcom “Good Morning, World.”
Unfortunately, much like his short-lived marriage, the show didn’t endure beyond its first season. Its cancellation marked a turning point in Joby Baker’s career. From then on, he returned to guest spots and occasional recurring roles, maintaining a consistent but less prominent presence on television. Audiences continued to recognize Joby Baker’s dependable performances across various programs until he stepped away from acting in early 1984. That same year, in a more joyful chapter, Joby Baker married singer and songwriter Dory Previn, closing one chapter of his life while quietly beginning another.
When it comes to Joby Baker’s filmography, one standout in terms of acclaim is Blackbeard’s Ghost from 1968—it’s widely regarded as Joby Baker’s highest rated movie. Fans and critics alike have shown a strong appreciation for the charm and humor that Joby Baker brought to the role. On the other end of the spectrum, Gidget (1959) tends to receive less favorable reviews, making it Joby Baker’s lowest rated movie. While the film has its moments, it didn’t quite resonate the same way with audiences looking for depth or strong performances. Overall, Joby Baker’s career spans a range of styles, but it’s clear that Blackbeard’s Ghost remains a highlight in Joby Baker’s body of work.