Herbert Ashley

Actor

Active: 1940

About Herbert Ashley

Herbert Ashley was a minor American actor during Hollywood's Golden Age who appeared in only one known film during his brief career. His sole documented screen appearance was in the 1940 crime mystery 'Midnight Limited,' directed by Howard Bretherton. Like many character actors of the era, Ashley likely played a small supporting or background role in the film, which starred John Howard and Adele Mara in the lead roles. His extremely limited filmography suggests he may have been a bit player, extra, or someone who briefly attempted an acting career without achieving significant success. The lack of additional credits indicates he either left the industry quickly, worked primarily in uncredited roles not documented in film records, or pursued other career paths outside of entertainment. His single appearance places him among the countless supporting players who contributed to Hollywood's studio system but whose names have largely faded from film history.

The Craft

Milestones

  • Appeared in 'Midnight Limited' (1940)

Best Known For

Must-See Films

  • Midnight Limited (1940)

Why They Matter

Impact on Culture

As a minor actor with only one documented film credit, Herbert Ashley's cultural impact was minimal and localized to his single appearance in 'Midnight Limited.' He represents the thousands of supporting players and bit actors who formed the backbone of Hollywood's studio system during its golden age, contributing to the rich tapestry of classic cinema even if their individual contributions were small and largely unrecorded in mainstream film history.

Lasting Legacy

Herbert Ashley's legacy is that of a typical Hollywood bit player from the 1940s whose brief appearance in the film industry exemplifies the transient nature of many acting careers during the studio era. While he did not achieve lasting fame or recognition, his contribution to 'Midnight Limited' makes him part of the historical record of American cinema, representing the countless performers who filled small roles but whose names have largely been forgotten by time.

Who They Inspired

Due to his extremely limited filmography consisting of only one known appearance, Herbert Ashley did not have a documented influence on other actors or directors in the industry.

Off Screen

Very little is documented about Herbert Ashley's personal life, which is typical for minor character actors from Hollywood's Golden Age who had brief or limited film careers.

Did You Know?

  • Herbert Ashley's entire known film career consists of a single film appearance in 1940
  • He appeared in 'Midnight Limited,' a crime mystery film directed by Howard Bretherton
  • The film he appeared in was released by Monogram Pictures, a studio known for producing B-movies
  • His active period in film was remarkably brief, lasting only one year according to available records
  • Like many bit players of the era, his role may have been uncredited or very minor
  • No other film credits or biographical information about him have been documented in major film databases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Herbert Ashley?

Herbert Ashley was a minor American actor active during Hollywood's Golden Age who appeared in only one known film, 'Midnight Limited' (1940). He represents the many bit players and character actors who briefly worked in the studio system without achieving lasting fame.

What films is Herbert Ashley best known for?

Herbert Ashley is known only for his appearance in 'Midnight Limited' (1940), a crime mystery film directed by Howard Bretherton. This appears to be his sole documented film credit.

When was Herbert Ashley born and when did he die?

Specific birth and death dates for Herbert Ashley are not documented in available film databases and historical records, which is common for minor supporting actors from this era.

What awards did Herbert Ashley win?

There are no documented awards or nominations for Herbert Ashley, which is typical for actors with very limited filmographies and minor roles during Hollywood's studio era.

What was Herbert Ashley's acting style?

Due to the limited documentation of his work and the fact that he appeared in only one film, Herbert Ashley's specific acting style and techniques are not recorded in film history or critical analyses.

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Films

1 film