Frank Melton
Actor
About Frank Melton
Frank Melton was an American character actor who had a brief but memorable career during the Golden Age of Hollywood. His screen appearances were concentrated primarily between 1940 and 1941, during which he worked in supporting roles alongside some of the era's biggest stars. Melton appeared in the musical comedy 'Second Chorus' (1940) starring Fred Astaire and Paulette Goddard, where he played a minor but noticeable role. The following year, he appeared in 'Pot o' Gold' (1941), another musical comedy featuring James Stewart and Paulette Goddard. Despite his limited filmography, Melton's performances demonstrated the typical professionalism and character acting skills valued by Hollywood studios during this period. His career, though short, placed him in the company of legendary performers during one of Hollywood's most creative decades. After 1941, Melton seemingly disappeared from the film industry, leaving behind a small but interesting legacy in classic cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Melton was a character actor specializing in supporting roles, likely employing the naturalistic style typical of Hollywood's studio system era. His brief appearances suggest he was adept at portraying everyday characters with authenticity and reliability.
Milestones
- Appeared in 'Second Chorus' (1940) with Fred Astaire
- Appeared in 'Pot o' Gold' (1941) with James Stewart
- Worked during the Golden Age of Hollywood musical comedies
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Frank Melton's contribution to cinema, while not extensive, represents the essential role that character actors played in Hollywood's Golden Age. His appearances in two notable musical comedies of the early 1940s demonstrate how studios relied on reliable supporting players to build the worlds around their stars. These films, particularly 'Second Chorus' and 'Pot o' Gold', have become time capsules of American entertainment during a pivotal period in history, just before the United States entered World War II.
Lasting Legacy
Though his career was brief, Frank Melton's legacy is preserved through his appearances in two classic Hollywood musical comedies that continue to be studied and enjoyed by film enthusiasts. His work serves as a reminder of the countless supporting actors who contributed to the magic of Hollywood's Golden Age, even if their names never became household words. These films remain valuable artifacts of early 1940s American cinema, and Melton is part of their enduring appeal.
Who They Inspired
As a supporting actor with a very brief career, Frank Melton did not have a significant influence on other performers or the film industry at large. However, his professional approach to his craft exemplified the studio system's emphasis on reliability and teamwork, qualities that characterized Hollywood's most successful period.
Off Screen
Frank Melton led a relatively private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. Born in Oklahoma City, he eventually made his way to Hollywood during the peak of the studio system era. After his brief acting career ended in 1941, he appears to have left the entertainment industry entirely. Melton spent his later years away from public attention, passing away in 1975 at the age of 66.
Did You Know?
- Frank Melton's entire known filmography consists of only two films from 1940-1941
- Both of his credited appearances were in musical comedies
- He worked with Paulette Goddard in both of his films
- His career coincided with the transition period before America's entry into WWII
- Like many character actors of the era, he likely earned more consistent work than leading players but received less recognition
- His disappearance from films after 1941 remains undocumented
- He was born the same year as major stars like James Stewart and Bette Davis
- His death in 1975 occurred during the New Hollywood era, a completely different period from when he worked
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Frank Melton?
Frank Melton was an American character actor who had a brief career in Hollywood during the early 1940s, appearing in two notable musical comedies before disappearing from the film industry.
What films is Frank Melton best known for?
Frank Melton is known for his appearances in 'Second Chorus' (1940) starring Fred Astaire and 'Pot o' Gold' (1941) starring James Stewart, both musical comedies from Hollywood's Golden Age.
When was Frank Melton born and when did he die?
Frank Melton was born on May 15, 1908, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and died on March 22, 1975, at the age of 66.
What awards did Frank Melton win?
Frank Melton did not receive any major awards or nominations during his brief acting career, which was typical for supporting character actors of his era.
What was Frank Melton's acting style?
Melton was a character actor who likely employed the naturalistic, professional style typical of Hollywood's studio system, specializing in supporting roles that helped build the world around leading stars.
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Films
2 films
