In the late 1930s, Max Showalter stepped into the spotlight with his Broadway debut in the musical Knights of Song. Right from the start, Max Showalter made a strong impression, quickly becoming a familiar face on the Great White Way. Over the years, Max Showalter appeared in several high-profile productions, such as This Is The Army, Make Mine Manhattan, and The Grass Harp. One of his most memorable stage roles came when Max Showalter joined the cast of the iconic Hello, Dolly!, further cementing his reputation in American theater.
By the late 1940s, Max Showalter smoothly transitioned from stage to screen, making his film debut in Roy Del Ruth’s comedic drama Always Leave Them Laughing. This marked the beginning of a versatile career in cinema. Around the early 1950s, Max Showalter decided to rebrand himself professionally, adopting the name Casey Adams. Under this new identity, Max Showalter—now credited as Casey Adams—appeared in a number of feature films and television series. However, after about a decade, he chose to return to his original name, once again embracing the identity of Max Showalter.
From 1960 through 1980, Max Showalter remained active in both film and television, taking on a wide variety of roles. He even enjoyed recurring appearances on popular shows like Perry Mason and The Stockard Channing Show. Thanks to his solid background in musical theater, Max Showalter landed a standout role as J.B. Biggley in the 1975 television adaptation of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying—a performance that truly showcased his talents.
Max Showalter’s final on-screen role was as Grandpa Fred in John Hughes’ beloved 1984 romantic comedy Sixteen Candles, which starred Molly Ringwald and Anthony Michael Hall. It was a fitting end to a long and varied career in entertainment. Max Showalter passed away in 2000 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy shaped by dedication, adaptability, and an enduring presence across stage and screen. Throughout it all, Max Showalter remained a respected figure in the world of performing arts.
When it comes to Max Showalter’s career highlights, one standout performance comes from the 1954 film Night People, which is widely regarded as Max Showalter’s highest rated movie. Critics and audiences alike have praised his role in this gripping Cold War thriller, solidifying its place as a top entry in Max Showalter’s filmography. On the other end of the spectrum, Max Showalter’s lowest rated film appears to be Fate Is the Hunter from 1964—a project that, despite its ambitious premise, didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers or reviewers. While Max Showalter brought depth and professionalism to every role, these two films represent the peaks and valleys of his on-screen journey. Overall, Max Showalter’s body of work reflects a dedicated and versatile performer, with Night People shining as a clear career high point.