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Walter BurkeIrish-American actor
Date of Birth: 25.08.1908
Country:  USA |
Content:
Walter Burke: A Life in the Arts
Early Life and CareerWalter Burke, an Irish-American actor, was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Irish immigrants. As a teenager, he entered the stage and made his Broadway debut in the 1925-1926 production of 'Dearest Enemy'. In the following year, he appeared in 'Padlocks' at the Shubert Theatre.
American Opera Company
In 1928, Burke joined the American Opera Company, where he performed roles in 'Faust', 'Madame Butterfly', and 'Yolanda of Cyprus'. After a two-year stint, he returned to Broadway in 1936 for 'Help Yourself'.
Film and Television
Burke's film debut came in 1948 with 'The Naked City'. He later starred in the Oscar-winning film 'All the King's Men' (1949). Throughout his career, he appeared in 24 films.
While Burke had a successful film career, it was his television work that brought him the most recognition. Between 1951 and 1980, he made guest appearances in 103 different television series and three telefilms. He often played recurring and episodic roles, returning to some series in different capacities.
Residency and Later Years
Burke spent his time between Hollywood and his ranch in Pennsylvania. He also taught drama at a local college in his spare time. An avid smoker throughout his life, he succumbed to emphysema in 1984 at the age of 75, three weeks shy of his 76th birthday.
