Robert Emmett Keane
Actor
About Robert Emmett Keane
Robert Emmett Keane was a prolific American character actor whose career spanned over four decades across stage, screen, and television. Born in New York City in 1883, he began his professional journey on the Broadway stage in 1914 with 'The Passing Show of 1914' and became a reliable fixture in musical comedies and revues throughout the 1910s and 1920s. He transitioned to motion pictures during the dawn of the sound era, making his feature debut in the Warner Bros. production 'Captain Thunder' (1930). Over the next twenty-five years, Keane appeared in nearly 200 films, often portraying fast-talking professionals, nervous clerks, or cynical urbanites. His versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between major studio productions like 'Mad Love' (1935) and 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' (1941) and numerous B-movie serials and Westerns. Even in his later years, he remained active, making several appearances on early television programs before retiring in 1958. He lived to the remarkable age of 98, passing away in Hollywood in 1981.
The Craft
On Screen
Keane was known for a sharp, energetic acting style often characterized by rapid-fire delivery and expressive facial reactions. He excelled at playing high-strung characters, sophisticated but slightly untrustworthy professionals, and comedic foils. His background in Vaudeville and Broadway musical comedy gave him a precise sense of timing that made him a favorite for directors needing to punch up supporting scenes.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in 'The Passing Show of 1914'
- Featured role as Don Miguel in his first talkie 'Captain Thunder' (1930)
- Memorable performance as Raoul the Drunk in the horror classic 'Mad Love' (1935)
- Appeared in the Academy Award-winning 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' (1941)
- Prolific run in the 1940s as a reliable supporting player for major studios like MGM and Warner Bros.
- Successfully transitioned to television in the late 1940s with roles in 'The Lone Ranger'
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized as a veteran of the 'Golden Age' of Hollywood character acting
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Robert Emmett Keane represented the backbone of the Hollywood studio system: the dependable character actor. While never a leading man, his presence in nearly 200 films provided a sense of continuity and professional polish to the 'Golden Age' of cinema. He was part of a generation of stage-trained actors who helped Hollywood transition from the silent era to the complex dialogue requirements of the talkies.
Lasting Legacy
Keane's legacy lies in his staggering filmography, which serves as a comprehensive map of mid-century American filmmaking. From Pre-Code dramas to film noir and early television, his career reflects the evolution of the industry. He is particularly remembered by film historians for his longevity and his ability to maintain a steady career through the radical shifts of the 1930s and 40s.
Who They Inspired
He influenced the 'working actor' archetype, proving that a successful and respected career in Hollywood could be built entirely on supporting roles and versatility rather than stardom.
Off Screen
Robert Emmett Keane was married twice, both times to women involved in the performing arts. His first marriage was to Muriel Inetta Window, a Ziegfeld Follies performer and opera singer. Following their divorce, he married actress Claire Whitney in 1921. The couple remained married for 48 years until her death in 1969. They often appeared together in stage productions during the early part of their marriage.
Education
Trained in Vaudeville and the New York theater circuit during the early 1900s.
Family
- Muriel Inetta Window (1916-1920)
- Claire Whitney (1921-1969)
Did You Know?
- He lived to be 98 years old, making him one of the longest-lived actors of his era.
- His first wife, Muriel Window, was known as the 'Peacock Girl' in the 1913 Ziegfeld Follies.
- He appeared in several films with the comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, including 'Jitterbugs' (1943).
- Despite appearing in nearly 200 films, he was frequently uncredited in his smaller roles.
- He is buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
- He made his Broadway debut in a revue that also featured legendary composer Sigmund Romberg's music.
In Their Own Words
I've played every kind of professional man Hollywood could dream up, from doctors to shysters, and I enjoyed every minute of the work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Robert Emmett Keane?
Robert Emmett Keane was a prolific American character actor known for appearing in nearly 200 films between 1930 and 1958. He began his career on Broadway before becoming a staple of the Hollywood studio system during the Golden Age.
What films is Robert Emmett Keane best known for?
He is best known for his roles in 'Captain Thunder' (1930), the horror film 'Mad Love' (1935), the fantasy classic 'The Devil and Daniel Webster' (1941), and the Bob Hope comedy 'My Favorite Blonde' (1942).
When was Robert Emmett Keane born and when did he die?
He was born on March 4, 1883, in New York City and died on July 2, 1981, in Hollywood, California, at the age of 98.
What was Robert Emmett Keane's acting style?
Keane was known for his high-energy, fast-talking delivery and sharp comedic timing. He often played nervous, cynical, or professional characters like lawyers, clerks, and managers.
Did Robert Emmett Keane ever win an Oscar?
No, Robert Emmett Keane did not win an Academy Award. Like many character actors of his time, he was valued for his reliability and volume of work rather than leading-man accolades.
Was Robert Emmett Keane married?
Yes, he was married twice. His most notable marriage was to actress Claire Whitney, which lasted from 1921 until her death in 1969.
Learn More
Films
1 film
