Larry Gates, the American character actor, truly found his stride later in life, and it was Larry Gates who became a familiar face to audiences through his memorable performances—particularly on the long-running soap “Guiding Light” and in the iconic film Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Though he had been steadily working on stage and screen for years, it wasn’t until 1956 that Larry Gates began to gain wider recognition. That year proved pivotal: he appeared in the Broadway production of Bell, Book and Candle, which helped bring him into the spotlight, and also delivered a standout performance in the sci-fi thriller Invasion of the Body Snatchers, released the same year.
From there, Larry Gates’ career took off. He carved out a niche as a dependable and versatile supporting actor, often portraying authoritative figures with a calm yet commanding presence. One of his most notable roles came in 1958 when Larry Gates played Dr. Baugh in the Tennessee Williams adaptation Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, a performance that further solidified his reputation in Hollywood. Over the years, he lent his talents to a diverse array of films—from Samuel Fuller’s gritty noir Underworld U.S.A. to Lillian Hellman’s dramatic Toys in the Attic and even the Italian crime saga Lucky Luciano, where Larry Gates portrayed a judge with quiet gravitas.
On the small screen, Larry Gates showcased his range across numerous genres. He made multiple appearances on the popular crime series The F.B.I., bringing depth to each of his guest roles. He also took on historical figures, notably playing President Herbert Hoover in the acclaimed miniseries Backstairs at the White House. But perhaps the role most closely associated with Larry Gates was that of H.B. Lewis on Guiding Light. This enduring portrayal became a hallmark of his career, one he continued with dedication until his passing in 1996.
Indeed, while Larry Gates may not have become a household name early on, his body of work speaks volumes. Through decades of consistent and compelling performances, Larry Gates earned his place as a respected figure in American film and television—a true character actor whose contributions left a lasting mark.
When it comes to Larry Gates’s filmography, one movie that really stands out is The Hoodlum Priest from 1961—it’s widely regarded as Larry Gates’s highest rated performance on screen. Critics and audiences alike have praised his role in that film, noting the depth and sincerity he brought to the character. On the other hand, looking at the lower end of the spectrum, Larry Gates appeared in Toys in the Attic, released in 1963, which unfortunately ended up being his lowest rated film. While Larry Gates delivered a solid performance, the movie itself didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers or reviewers. Still, it’s interesting to see the range in Larry Gates’s career, from standout roles like in The Hoodlum Priest to more underwhelming projects such as Toys in the Attic. Overall, Larry Gates remains a notable figure in classic cinema.