Elisha Cook Jr.

Elisha Vanslyck Cook Jr. (December 26, 1903 – May 18, 1995) was an esteemed American character actor, best known for his work in film noir. He was notably featured in 21 films noir, which is a record for any actor or actress. His roles ranged from cheerful, brainy collegiates to menacing, mild-mannered villains. Some of his stand-out performances stemmed from acclaimed productions such as 'The Maltese Falcon', 'The Big Sleep', 'Shane', 'The Killing', 'House on Haunted Hill', and 'Rosemary’s Baby'. Cook's acting career spanned over six decades, proving his enduring skill and versatility.

Born in San Francisco, California, Cook was raised in Chicago and began performing in vaudeville and stock by the age of 14. He achieved Broadway success when renowned playwright Eugene O'Neill personally cast him in 'Ah, Wilderness'. Cook also served in the United States Army in the early 1940s. His dedication to his craft carried over into his film career, with roles that often required him to play complex characters, including weaklings, sadistic losers, and hoodlums, who were frequently murdered in grisly fashion in the plotlines. His film debut came in 1930 with Hollywood's version of the play 'Her Unborn Child'. Cook's later career also extended to TV drama series.

Despite his distinguished career in Hollywood, Cook never became part of the Hollywood social scene and preferred a quiet life as a rugged outdoorsman. He lived out his last years in Bishop, California, often retreating for the summer to Lake Sabrina in the Sierra Nevada. Cook died of a stroke at age 91, on May 18, 1995.