Donald Woods
Actor
About Donald Woods
Donald Woods was a Canadian-American actor who enjoyed a prolific career spanning over four decades in Hollywood, though his appearance in 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961) represents just one small part of his extensive filmography. Born in Canada, Woods began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to films in the early 1930s, quickly establishing himself as a reliable character actor. He signed with Warner Bros. in the mid-1930s where he appeared in numerous supporting roles, often playing sophisticated professionals, businessmen, or authority figures. Woods was particularly adept at portraying doctors, lawyers, and government officials, bringing a natural gravitas to every role he undertook. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, he worked consistently across various studios, appearing in over 150 films and television shows. His career extended into the television era where he found steady work in popular series of the time. Woods retired from acting in the mid-1960s, leaving behind a substantial body of work that, while often uncredited, contributed significantly to the fabric of Golden Age Hollywood cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Woods was known for his naturalistic and understated acting style, bringing authenticity and credibility to every role. He specialized in portraying educated, professional characters with a calm demeanor and authoritative presence. His approach was subtle yet effective, often stealing scenes with minimal dialogue through his commanding screen presence and nuanced facial expressions.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in 1928
- Signed with Warner Bros. in 1936
- Starred in 'The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle' (1939)
- Transitioned successfully to television in the 1950s
- Appeared in over 150 film and television productions
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (located at 6821 Hollywood Boulevard)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Donald Woods represents the quintessential character actor of Hollywood's Golden Age, the reliable professional who elevated countless films with his presence. While never a leading man, his contributions to cinema were significant through his consistent performances across multiple genres. He exemplified the journeyman actor who provided essential support to star-driven productions, helping to create believable worlds through his authentic portrayals of everyday professionals. His work in both film and early television helped bridge the transition between the two mediums.
Lasting Legacy
Woods' legacy lies in his vast body of work that serves as a historical record of American entertainment from the 1930s through the 1960s. His Hollywood Walk of Fame star recognizes his contributions to the industry, and his films continue to be studied and appreciated by classic cinema enthusiasts. He represents the backbone of Hollywood's studio system - the reliable character actors who made star vehicles shine.
Who They Inspired
While not a major influencer in terms of acting technique, Woods' professionalism and longevity served as an example for character actors who followed. His successful transition from film to television demonstrated adaptability in a changing industry, showing other actors how to extend their careers beyond the studio system era.
Off Screen
Donald Woods led a relatively private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. He married his wife June in 1934, and their marriage lasted until her death in 1991, spanning 57 years. The couple had two children together. Woods was known for his professionalism and reliability on set, earning respect from colleagues throughout his long career. After retiring from acting, he lived a quiet life in California until his death at age 91.
Education
Educated in Canada; studied acting before moving to New York to pursue theater career
Family
- June (1934-1991)
Did You Know?
- Began his career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films
- Often played doctors, lawyers, and other professional roles due to his authoritative demeanor
- Changed his professional name from Donald Woods Lewis to Donald Woods to avoid confusion with another actor
- Served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II
- Appeared in three films with Humphrey Bogart: 'Black Legion', 'The Great O'Malley', and 'Kid Galahad'
- His final film role was in 'The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming' (1966)
- Was a founding member of the Hollywood Cricket Club
- Received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960
- Worked consistently in television throughout the 1950s and early 1960s
- Never received top billing in a major Hollywood production but was highly respected by directors and fellow actors
In Their Own Words
I've never been a star, but I've always worked, and that's what matters in this business.
The key to longevity in Hollywood isn't fame, it's reliability and professionalism.
Every role, no matter how small, is important to the picture. I've always believed that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Donald Woods?
Donald Woods was a Canadian-American character actor who appeared in over 150 films and television shows from the 1920s through the 1960s. He was known for playing professional authority figures like doctors, lawyers, and government officials, bringing authenticity and gravitas to every role.
What films is Donald Woods best known for?
Woods appeared in numerous notable films including 'The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle' (1939), 'A Dispatch from Reuter's' (1940), 'The Man Who Walked Alone' (1945), and 'Five Minutes to Live' (1961). He also had memorable roles in several Humphrey Bogart films.
When was Donald Woods born and when did he die?
Donald Woods was born on December 2, 1906, in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, and passed away on March 5, 1998, in Palm Desert, California, at the age of 91.
What awards did Donald Woods win?
While Donald Woods didn't receive major acting awards, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, recognizing his significant contributions to the entertainment industry over four decades.
What was Donald Woods' acting style?
Woods was known for his naturalistic, understated acting style that brought authenticity to professional roles. He specialized in portraying educated, authoritative characters with a calm demeanor and commanding presence, often stealing scenes through subtle nuances rather than dramatic gestures.
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Films
1 film
