Paul Stewart
Actor
About Paul Stewart
Paul Stewart was born Paul Sternberg on March 13, 1908, in New York City, beginning his career in radio and theater before joining Orson Welles' Mercury Theatre in the 1930s. He made his film debut in Welles' groundbreaking 'Citizen Kane' (1941), playing the butler Raymond, a role that established his reputation for playing authoritative and sometimes sinister characters. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Stewart became a familiar face in Hollywood films, often cast as gangsters, police officials, or businessmen in notable films like 'The Bad and the Beautiful' (1952), 'The Big Clock' (1948), and 'The Joe Louis Story' (1953). In addition to his film work, Stewart was prolific in television, appearing in numerous series throughout the 1950s and 1960s, and also ventured into directing, helming several television episodes and a few feature films. He continued acting until his death on February 17, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a legacy of memorable character performances that spanned over five decades in the entertainment industry.
The Craft
On Screen
Stewart was known for his distinctive deep voice and imposing presence, which made him ideal for authoritative or villainous roles. He had a naturalistic yet commanding style that could convey both menace and vulnerability. His background in radio theater contributed to his precise diction and ability to deliver lines with maximum impact. Stewart excelled at playing morally ambiguous characters, bringing depth and complexity to roles that might otherwise be one-dimensional.
Milestones
- Member of Orson Welles' Mercury Theatre
- Appeared in 'Citizen Kane' (1941) as Raymond the butler
- Prolific character actor in film noir and drama
- Successful transition to television in the 1950s
- Directed episodes of popular TV series
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Paul Stewart contributed significantly to the golden age of Hollywood cinema through his memorable character performances. His work in film noir helped define the genre's aesthetic and tone. As a member of Orson Welles' Mercury Theatre, he was part of one of the most innovative theatrical and film companies of the 20th century. Stewart's transition from radio to film to television exemplified the adaptability required of actors during the rapidly changing media landscape of the mid-20th century.
Lasting Legacy
Stewart's legacy lies in his body of work as a character actor who brought depth and authenticity to hundreds of roles across film, radio, and television. His performance as Raymond in 'Citizen Kane' remains one of the most memorable supporting roles in cinema history. Stewart demonstrated how character actors could have long, successful careers without ever becoming stars, relying instead on talent, versatility, and professionalism. His work continues to be studied by actors and film scholars interested in the craft of supporting performance.
Who They Inspired
Stewart influenced generations of character actors through his example of how to create memorable, fully-realized characters even with limited screen time. His distinctive voice and delivery style have been emulated by many actors who followed. His successful navigation of multiple media platforms showed actors how to maintain relevance in an evolving entertainment industry.
Off Screen
Stewart was married to actress and singer Peg LaCentra from 1943 until his death in 1986. The couple had no children. Stewart was known for his professionalism and reliability in the industry, which contributed to his long and steady career. He was a private individual who rarely gave interviews about his personal life, preferring to let his work speak for itself.
Family
- Peg LaCentra (1943-1986)
Did You Know?
- Born Paul Sternberg, he changed his name to avoid confusion with another actor
- Was a founding member of Orson Welles' Mercury Theatre
- His distinctive deep voice made him a popular choice for radio work before transitioning to film
- In 'Citizen Kane,' he played Raymond, the butler who was present during Kane's death scene
- Despite often playing villains, he was known as a kind and gentle person off-screen
- He directed several episodes of the popular TV series 'Perry Mason'
- Stewart appeared in over 100 films and television shows during his career
- He was married to singer-actress Peg LaCentra for over 40 years
- Stewart served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II
- He was particularly adept at playing characters with hidden depths and moral ambiguity
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Paul Stewart?
Paul Stewart was an American character actor born in 1908 who appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career. He was best known for his distinctive deep voice and his frequent casting in authoritative or villainous roles. Stewart was a founding member of Orson Welles' Mercury Theatre and gained recognition for his role as Raymond the butler in 'Citizen Kane' (1941).
What films is Paul Stewart best known for?
Paul Stewart is best known for his role as Raymond in Orson Welles' 'Citizen Kane' (1941). Other notable films include 'The Bad and the Beautiful' (1952), 'The Big Clock' (1948), 'Champion' (1949), and 'The Joe Louis Story' (1953). He was particularly prominent in film noir productions where his authoritative presence and distinctive voice made him a perfect fit for morally ambiguous characters.
When was Paul Stewart born and when did he die?
Paul Stewart was born on March 13, 1908, in New York City, New York, USA. He died on February 17, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 77. Throughout his 51-year career, he remained a steady presence in Hollywood, transitioning successfully from radio to film to television.
What awards did Paul Stewart win?
While Paul Stewart had a prolific and respected career as a character actor, there is no record of him receiving major industry awards such as Academy Awards or Golden Globes. His recognition came more from the consistent quality of his performances and the respect of his peers in the industry. He was, however, part of the ensemble cast of 'Citizen Kane,' which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
What was Paul Stewart's acting style?
Paul Stewart was known for his naturalistic yet commanding acting style, characterized by his distinctive deep voice and imposing physical presence. He excelled at bringing depth and complexity to supporting roles, particularly those of authority figures or villains. Stewart had a talent for conveying moral ambiguity, making even his antagonistic characters multidimensional and human. His background in radio theater contributed to his precise diction and ability to deliver lines with maximum impact.
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Films
1 film
