Gene Reynolds
Actor
About Gene Reynolds
Gene Reynolds began his career as a child actor in the 1930s, appearing in numerous films throughout Hollywood's Golden Age. Born Eugene Reynolds Blumenthal, he started acting at a young age and became a familiar face in supporting roles during the 1940s. His acting career spanned from 1934 to the early 1950s, with appearances in over 40 films including notable productions like 'Santa Fe Trail' (1940) alongside Errol Flynn and 'The Big Cat' (1950). After serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, Reynolds returned to acting but gradually transitioned behind the camera. He became one of television's most respected directors and producers, particularly renowned for his groundbreaking work on 'M*A*S*H,' where he served as showrunner and directed numerous episodes. Reynolds won multiple Emmy Awards for his television work and left an indelible mark on both classic cinema and television history.
The Craft
On Screen
As a young actor, Reynolds was known for his natural, unforced performances that brought authenticity to his supporting roles. He often played earnest, wholesome characters that resonated with audiences of the era. His acting style was characterized by a sincere delivery and ability to convey emotion without melodrama, typical of the more realistic acting approach emerging in the late 1930s and 1940s.
Milestones
- Child actor in 1930s Hollywood films
- Appeared in 'Santa Fe Trail' (1940) with Errol Flynn
- Served in U.S. Army Air Forces during WWII
- Transitioned to television directing in 1950s
- Created and produced 'Lou Grant' series
- Directed and produced 'M*A*S*H' (1972-1983)
- Won 6 Emmy Awards for television work
- President of Directors Guild of America (1993-1997)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1974)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1976)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1977)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1976)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1976)
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series - Lou Grant (1979)
- Directors Guild of America Award for Outstanding Directorial Achievement - M*A*S*H (1976)
Nominated
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1973)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1975)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1978)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1979)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series - M*A*S*H (1980)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Drama Series - Lou Grant (1980)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (Television)
- Directors Guild of America Honorary Life Member
- Television Academy Hall of Fame Inductee (2013)
- Writers Guild of America Laurel Award for Television Writing Achievement
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Gene Reynolds significantly shaped American television through his innovative work on 'M*A*S*H,' which revolutionized the sitcom format by addressing serious social issues within a comedy framework. His approach to blending humor with commentary on war, politics, and human values influenced generations of television creators. The success of 'Lou Grant' demonstrated his ability to tackle serious journalism topics while maintaining mass appeal, paving the way for more sophisticated dramatic television series.
Lasting Legacy
Reynolds left an enduring legacy as one of television's most influential creative forces. His work on 'M*A*S*H' not only entertained millions but also challenged audiences to think about important social issues, setting a new standard for what television could achieve. As a leader in the Directors Guild of America, he fought for directors' creative rights and helped establish better working conditions in the industry. His transition from child actor to acclaimed director and producer serves as an inspiration for industry professionals seeking to evolve their careers.
Who They Inspired
Reynolds influenced countless television creators through his pioneering work in the dramedy genre. His ability to balance comedy with serious themes inspired shows like 'The West Wing,' 'The Office,' and 'Modern Family.' As a mentor to many directors and writers, his emphasis on character-driven storytelling and social relevance continues to shape television production. His advocacy for directors' creative control has had lasting impact on industry standards and practices.
Off Screen
Gene Reynolds was married twice during his lifetime. He married his first wife, Ann Sargent, in 1950, and they had three children together before divorcing in 1973. He later married actress Lory Patrick in 1979, with whom he remained until his death. Reynolds was known for his dedication to his craft and his advocacy for directors' rights in the entertainment industry, serving as president of the Directors Guild of America from 1993 to 1997.
Education
Attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for a brief period before focusing on his acting career
Family
- Ann Sargent (1950-1973)
- Lory Patrick (1979-2020)
Did You Know?
- Started acting at age 11 after being discovered while performing in a school play
- Appeared in the classic film 'Boys Town' (1938) with Spencer Tracy
- Served as a combat cameraman in the U.S. Army Air Forces during WWII
- Directed 76 episodes of 'M*A*S*H' during its 11-season run
- His son Kevin Reynolds became a successful film director ('Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves')
- Was instrumental in developing the character of Hawkeye Pierce for television
- Fought for and won the right for television directors to receive residuals
- Was one of the first producers to hire women writers in significant numbers for 'M*A*S*H'
- Received the Directors Guild of America's Robert B. Aldrich Award for service to the guild
- Was a vocal advocate for age diversity in Hollywood casting
In Their Own Words
The best comedy comes from truth, and the best drama comes from understanding the human condition.
On M*A*S*H, we learned you could make people laugh and think at the same time.
Television isn't just entertainment; it's the most powerful medium for social change we have.
Directing is about bringing out the best in everyone, not just showing what you can do.
The war in M*A*S*H was never about Korea; it was about the human capacity to survive and care for each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gene Reynolds?
Gene Reynolds was an American actor, director, producer, and writer who began as a child actor in the 1930s and later became one of television's most influential creators, best known for his groundbreaking work on 'M*A*S*H' and 'Lou Grant'.
What films is Gene Reynolds best known for from his acting career?
As an actor, Reynolds appeared in over 40 films including 'Santa Fe Trail' (1940), 'The Big Cat' (1950), 'Boys Town' (1938), 'In Old Chicago' (1938), and 'Of Human Hearts' (1938).
When was Gene Reynolds born and when did he die?
Gene Reynolds was born on August 4, 1923, in Cleveland, Ohio, and passed away on February 3, 2020, at the age of 96 in Burbank, California.
What awards did Gene Reynolds win?
Reynolds won six Emmy Awards for his work on 'M*A*S*H' and 'Lou Grant', a Directors Guild of America Award for directing, and was inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2013.
What was Gene Reynolds's directing style?
Reynolds was known for pioneering the dramedy format, seamlessly blending humor with serious social commentary. He excelled at ensemble storytelling and used comedy to address controversial subjects, particularly in his work on 'M*A*S*H'.
How did Gene Reynolds impact television?
Reynolds revolutionized television by proving that sitcoms could tackle serious social issues while remaining entertaining. His work on 'M*A*S*H' set new standards for television comedy and influenced generations of creators to pursue more substantive content.
What was Gene Reynolds's role in the Directors Guild of America?
Reynolds served as President of the Directors Guild of America from 1993 to 1997, where he fought for directors' creative rights and was instrumental in securing better working conditions and residual payments for television directors.
Learn More
Films
2 films
