John Raitt American actor and singer Date of Birth: 19.01.1917 Country: USA

Biography of John Wright

John Emmett Wright was an American actor and singer, best known for his performances in musical theater. He was born on January 19, 1917, in Santa Ana, California, USA. Wright began his acting career in high school, where he appeared in several dramatic productions, including performances at the Plummer Auditorium. He also sang in the choir 'The Desert Song'.

Wright is primarily known for his theatrical roles in a number of musicals, including 'Carousel', 'Oklahoma!', 'The Pajama Game', 'Carnival in Flanders', 'Three Wishes for Jamie', and 'A Joyful Noise'. He became the epitome of the strong, handsome, and powerful voice during the golden age of Broadway musicals.

In 1957, Wright landed his only leading role in a film, starring alongside Doris Day in the movie version of 'The Pajama Game'. He also appeared in various concerts on television, such as 'The Bell Telephone Hour', showcasing the best classical and Broadway numbers from 1959 to 1968. His performance of the song 'Soliloquy' from the TV version of 'Carousel' was featured in the 2003 documentary film 'Broadway: The Golden Age'.

In 1957, Wright reunited with Mary Martin for a television version of the musical western 'Annie Get Your Gun', reminiscing about their past touring experiences with the production. His film career also included the musical comedy 'For Me and My Gal' with Judy Garland, the war drama 'Flight Command' with Robert Taylor, the short film 'Respect the Law', and the biopic 'The Babe Ruth Story'.

Wright made appearances in TV series such as 'The General Electric Theater' and 'Death Valley Days'. He received the Theatre World Award in 1945 for his debut performance in the musical 'Carousel'. In 1965, he attended the 20th-anniversary celebration of the musical at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.

After divorcing his second wife in 1981, Wright reached out to his longtime high school sweetheart, who had recently become a widow. They reconnected and eventually remarried. Wright later made a guest appearance in the popular TV series '3rd Rock from the Sun' in the role of Gil, a truck driver who sings a snippet of the main song from 'Oklahoma!' in the episode titled 'Frozen Dick'.

John Wright passed away at the age of 88 on February 20, 2005, at his home in Pacific Palisades, California, due to complications from pneumonia. His daughter, Bonnie Wright, became a singer, and his grandson, Bay Wright, is known for creating the face of Gollum in 'The Lord of the Rings' film trilogy.