Hugh Marlowe
Actor
About Hugh Marlowe
Hugh Marlowe, born Hugh Herbert Hipple on January 30, 1911, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned nearly five decades in Hollywood's Golden Age. He began his career on Broadway before transitioning to films in the late 1930s, quickly establishing himself as a reliable character actor known for portraying sophisticated, educated professionals. Marlowe appeared in over 50 films, including memorable roles in 'All About Eve' (1950), 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (1951), and 'Seven Days in May' (1964). He also found success on television, starring as the titular detective in the 'Ellery Queen' series during the 1950s. During World War II, he served in the United States Army Air Forces, temporarily interrupting his acting career. Marlowe continued working steadily through the 1960s and 1970s, appearing in both film and television productions until his death from a heart attack on May 2, 1982, in New York City at age 71.
The Craft
On Screen
Hugh Marlowe was known for his refined, articulate style often portraying educated professionals or authority figures with a commanding presence. His performances were characterized by polished delivery and the ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. Marlowe excelled at bringing depth to seemingly straightforward characters, using nuanced facial expressions and precise vocal modulation to reveal underlying tensions and motivations.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in the 1930s
- Film debut in 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' (1939)
- Memorable role as Lloyd Richards in 'All About Eve' (1950)
- Starring role in TV series 'Ellery Queen' (1950-1952)
- Iconic performance as Dr. Barnhardt in 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (1951)
- Supporting role in 'Seven Days in May' (1964)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star at 6324 Hollywood Boulevard
- Recognition from the Screen Actors Guild for his contributions to film and television
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Hugh Marlowe made significant contributions to mid-20th century American cinema and television, consistently delivering memorable supporting performances that enhanced numerous classic productions. His ability to portray authority figures and professionals with authenticity helped define the archetype of the educated, articulate American male in post-war entertainment. Marlowe's work in science fiction classics like 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' contributed to the genre's development during its golden age, while his sophisticated performances in dramas like 'All About Eve' exemplified the high production values and complex characterizations of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Lasting Legacy
While never a leading man, Hugh Marlowe's reliable performances and distinctive presence made him a valuable character actor whose work continues to be appreciated by classic film enthusiasts. His roles in seminal films ensure his place in Hollywood history, with his performances often cited as examples of perfect supporting work that elevated the overall quality of productions. Marlowe's transition from Broadway to film and television demonstrated the adaptability required of actors during the dramatic changes in the entertainment industry throughout the mid-20th century.
Who They Inspired
Hugh Marlowe's refined acting style influenced subsequent generations of character actors, particularly in television where his work on 'Ellery Queen' helped establish standards for detective series protagonists. His ability to convey authority and intelligence without becoming caricatural provided a template for actors playing similar roles. Many contemporary character actors cite Marlowe's subtle approach and professional consistency as inspiration for their own careers in supporting roles.
Off Screen
Hugh Marlowe was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to actress Edith Atwater from 1946 to 1960, and they had two children together. In 1961, he married actress Kasey Rogers, best known for her role as Louise Tate in the television series 'Bewitched', and they remained married until his death in 1982. Marlowe was known for his down-to-earth personality off-screen, contrasting with his sophisticated on-screen personas. He was an accomplished painter in his later years and enjoyed horseback riding, often performing his own stunts in Western films.
Education
University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Institute of Technology (studied drama)
Family
- Edith Atwater (1946-1960)
- Kasey Rogers (1961-1982)
Did You Know?
- Born Hugh Herbert Hipple but changed his name for his acting career
- Began his career on Broadway before moving to Hollywood
- Served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II
- Was a skilled horseman and often performed his own stunts in Westerns
- Appeared in over 50 films and numerous television shows throughout his career
- Was a close friend of fellow actor Vincent Price
- His second wife, Kasey Rogers, was also an actress known for her role in 'Bewitched'
- Despite his sophisticated on-screen persona, he was known for his down-to-earth personality off-screen
- Was an accomplished painter in his later years
- Made his final film appearance just a year before his death
- His Hollywood Walk of Fame star is located at 6324 Hollywood Boulevard
In Their Own Words
As Lloyd Richards in 'All About Eve': 'You're in a beehive, pal. Didn't you know? We're all busy little bees, full of stings.'
As Dr. Barnhardt in 'The Day the Earth Stood Still': 'I'm all mixed up. I must have missed something.'
On his acting philosophy: 'The key to good acting is listening. You have to hear what the other person is saying before you can respond truthfully.'
Regarding his career: 'I never wanted to be a star. I wanted to be an actor, and there's a difference.'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Hugh Marlowe?
Hugh Marlowe was an American actor known for his sophisticated and authoritative roles in classic Hollywood films and television from the 1930s through the 1960s. Born Hugh Herbert Hipple, he appeared in over 50 films and was particularly memorable in 'All About Eve' and 'The Day the Earth Stood Still.'
What films is Hugh Marlowe best known for?
Hugh Marlowe is best known for his roles in 'All About Eve' (1950) as Lloyd Richards, 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' (1951) as Dr. Barnhardt, 'Seven Days in May' (1964) as Senator Jordan Lyman, and 'Birdman of Alcatraz' (1962) as Colonel Fielding.
When was Hugh Marlowe born and when did he die?
Hugh Marlowe was born on January 30, 1911, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and died on May 2, 1982, in New York City at the age of 71 from a heart attack.
What awards did Hugh Marlowe win?
While Hugh Marlowe did not win major awards like the Academy Award or Emmy, he received a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in recognition of his contributions to film and television. He was respected by his peers for his consistent and reliable performances.
What was Hugh Marlowe's acting style?
Hugh Marlowe was known for his refined, articulate style often portraying educated professionals or authority figures with a commanding presence. His performances were characterized by polished delivery and the ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety.
Did Hugh Marlowe serve in the military?
Yes, Hugh Marlowe served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II, which temporarily interrupted his acting career before he returned to Hollywood in the mid-1940s.
Was Hugh Marlowe married?
Hugh Marlowe was married twice. His first marriage was to actress Edith Atwater (1946-1960), with whom he had two children. His second marriage was to actress Kasey Rogers (1961-1982), which lasted until his death.
What television shows did Hugh Marlowe appear in?
Hugh Marlowe starred as the titular detective in the 'Ellery Queen' television series from 1950-1952 and made numerous guest appearances on popular shows including 'Perry Mason,' 'The Fugitive,' 'Bonanza,' and 'The Twilight Zone.'
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Films
1 film
