kids encyclopedia robot

Fred Clark facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Fred Clark
Fred Clark - 1950.JPG
Clark in 1950
Born
Frederick Leonard Clark

(1914-03-19)March 19, 1914
Died December 5, 1968(1968-12-05) (aged 54)
Santa Monica, California, U.S.
Occupation Actor
Spouse(s)
  • Benay Venuta
    (m. 1952; div. 1962)
  • Gloria Glaser
    (m. 1966)

Frederick Leonard Clark (born March 19, 1914 – died December 5, 1968) was an American actor. He was known for playing serious or bossy characters in movies and on TV.

Early Life and Acting Dreams

Fred Clark was born in Lincoln, California. His father was also named Fred Clark.

He first went to Stanford University. He planned to become a doctor. But then he acted in a college play called Yellow Jack. This changed his mind completely.

Fred decided to study drama instead. He later won a scholarship to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His class even voted him the most promising actor!

Fred Clark's Acting Career

Fred Clark started his film career in 1947. His first movie was The Unsuspected. Over 20 years, he acted in almost 70 films. He also appeared in many TV shows.

He often played characters like a tough movie producer or a strict boss. He was known for his deep voice, strong build, bald head, and small mustache. He often looked like he was scowling!

During World War II, Fred joined the United States Navy. He served as an aviator, flying planes. Later, he moved to the United States Army. He served in Europe until the war ended.

Gene Kelly Going My Way television series 1962
Clark with Gene Kelly in the Going My Way TV show (1962)

Famous Movies and TV Shows

Fred Clark appeared in many popular movies. Some of these include Sunset Boulevard (1950) and How to Marry a Millionaire (1953). He was also in Auntie Mame (1958).

In the 1960s, he acted in more TV shows. He was a regular on The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show. He played their neighbor, Harry Morton.

He also made guest appearances on many classic TV shows. These included The Twilight Zone, The Beverly Hillbillies, and The Addams Family. You might also remember him from I Dream of Jeannie.

Fred also acted on Broadway, which is live theater in New York City. He was in plays like Absence of a Cello (1964).

Personal Life and Legacy

Fred Clark was married twice. His first wife was actress Benay Venuta. They were married from 1952 to 1962. Later, he married model Gloria Glaser in 1966. They were together until his death.

Fred Clark passed away on December 5, 1968, in Santa Monica, California. He died from liver disease.

He has a special star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This star honors his great work in television. You can find it at 1711 Vine Street.

Images for kids

kids search engine
Fred Clark Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.