Peter Lawford was a dashing and handsome English-American actor who first rose to fame in the 1940s as a matinee idol. Early in his career, Peter Lawford made a strong impression with standout roles in films like The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945) and Son of Lassie (1945), quickly establishing himself as a promising young talent. Over time, though, Peter Lawford became perhaps even more famous for his high-profile connections than for his film work—especially his marriage into the Kennedy family and his close association with Frank Sinatra and the rest of “The Rat Pack.”
During the 1960s, Peter Lawford’s star shone brightly in the glitzy world of Las Vegas entertainment, particularly with the success of Ocean’s Eleven (1960). However, as the years went by, Peter Lawford found fewer leading roles coming his way. Still, he remained active in the industry, taking on occasional film parts and appearing as a guest on popular television series such as The Doris Day Show (CBS, 1968–1973) and Fantasy Island (ABC, 1977–1984).
Though Peter Lawford may not have maintained the same level of stardom throughout his entire career, he played a memorable role in a unique era of American pop culture. In the end, Peter Lawford is remembered not just for his acting ability, but also for being part of an iconic social and entertainment circle that defined a generation.
When it comes to Peter Lawford’s filmography, one standout moment definitely shines brighter than the rest—his highest rated movie is It Should Happen to You from 1954. This classic film really showcases Peter Lawford at his best, both in terms of performance and on-screen charm. Over the years, fans and critics alike have praised his role in this particular title, making it a clear favorite among his works. On the other hand, not every project turned out to be a hit. In fact, Peter Lawford’s lowest rated film came more than a decade later—One More Time, released in 1970. While it had its moments, especially with the musical numbers, it just didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers. So, when you look at the full scope of Peter Lawford’s career, these two films represent the high and low points in terms of critical reception. Still, even in less successful roles, Peter Lawford brought a certain elegance that made him memorable. Overall, Peter Lawford remains a notable figure in Hollywood history, with It Should Happen to You standing tall as his most acclaimed performance.