Howard Petrie
Actor
About Howard Petrie
Howard Petrie was an American character actor whose imposing 6'5" frame made him a memorable presence in Hollywood Westerns and television dramas during the 1950s and 1960s. Born in Ohio in 1906, Petrie began his acting career relatively late, making his film debut in the early 1950s after years working in other fields. He quickly found his niche playing authority figures, lawmen, and villains, leveraging his tall stature and commanding voice to create memorable characters. His most notable film role came in 1955's 'Rage at Dawn' starring Randolph Scott, where he played a supporting role typical of his casting as a figure of authority. Throughout his career, Petrie appeared in numerous Western films and television series, becoming a familiar face to audiences of the genre. He continued working in television through the 1960s, with guest appearances on popular shows like 'Gunsmoke,' 'The Rifleman,' and 'Bonanza.' Petrie's career, while not leading-man status, was characterized by steady work as a reliable character actor who brought gravitas to every role. He passed away in 1968, leaving behind a legacy of memorable supporting performances in classic American Westerns.
The Craft
On Screen
Petrie was known for his commanding presence and deep, resonant voice that made him perfect for playing sheriffs, judges, military officers, and other authority figures. His tall, imposing stature (6'5") naturally lent itself to roles requiring gravitas and intimidation. He brought a naturalistic, understated approach to his characters, avoiding melodrama while still maintaining the toughness required for Western roles. Petrie's acting style was characterized by his ability to convey authority through subtle gestures and a steady, deliberate delivery of dialogue.
Milestones
- Film debut in early 1950s Westerns
- Memorable role in 'Rage at Dawn' (1955)
- Extensive television work in Western series
- Regular appearances on 'Gunsmoke' and 'Bonanza'
- Character actor specializing in authority figures
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Howard Petrie contributed to the golden age of Westerns by providing authentic, believable supporting characters that helped ground the genre in reality. His consistent portrayals of lawmen and authority figures helped establish the visual language of Westerns during the 1950s and 1960s. While never a star, Petrie's work in television Westerns helped define the look and feel of the genre during its television boom, influencing how authority figures were portrayed in subsequent Western productions.
Lasting Legacy
Petrie's legacy lies in his contributions to the Western genre as a reliable character actor who brought authenticity to every role. His work exemplifies the importance of supporting actors in creating believable worlds in film and television. Though not widely remembered by name today, classic film and television enthusiasts recognize his face from numerous Westerns, representing the backbone of Hollywood's studio system and television's golden age.
Who They Inspired
Petrie influenced subsequent generations of character actors by demonstrating how physical presence and subtle acting could create memorable supporting roles. His work in television Westerns helped establish templates for authority figures that would be followed by actors in later Western series and films.
Off Screen
Howard Petrie was married and had children, though he maintained a relatively private personal life away from the Hollywood spotlight. Before entering acting, he worked in various occupations, which may have contributed to his mature appearance and authentic portrayal of seasoned characters when he began his film career. His decision to pursue acting later in life gave him a unique perspective and depth that younger actors often lacked in similar roles.
Education
Limited public information available about his formal education
Family
- Marjorie Petrie (married until his death in 1968)
Did You Know?
- Stood 6'5" tall, making him one of the tallest character actors of his era
- Began his acting career in his 40s, relatively late for Hollywood
- Appeared in over 50 film and television productions during his career
- Often typecast as sheriffs, judges, and military officers due to his authoritative presence
- Worked extensively in both film and television during the Western genre's peak popularity
- His deep voice made him a popular choice for narration and voice work when available
- Despite his imposing screen presence, was known as a gentle and kind person off-screen
- Many of his roles were uncredited or minor, making a complete filmography difficult to compile
- Was a regular presence in Western television series during the genre's 1950s-60s boom
- His career spanned the transition from Hollywood's studio system to the television era
In Their Own Words
(As a sheriff in a Western) 'The law is the law, son. It don't bend for nobody.'
(Regarding his late start in acting) 'Better late than never, I always say. Life's too short not to follow your dreams.'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Howard Petrie?
Howard Petrie was an American character actor known for his tall, imposing presence in Western films and television during the 1950s and 1960s. He specialized in playing authority figures like sheriffs and judges, bringing authenticity to the genre through his commanding screen presence and deep voice.
What films is Howard Petrie best known for?
Petrie is best known for his role in 'Rage at Dawn' (1955) starring Randolph Scott, as well as appearances in other Westerns like 'The Lone Ranger' (1956), 'The Black Whip' (1956), and 'The Road to Denver' (1955). He also had extensive television work in Western series.
When was Howard Petrie born and when did he die?
Howard Petrie was born on November 13, 1906, in Beverly, Ohio, and passed away on March 24, 1968. He lived to be 61 years old and maintained his acting career until shortly before his death.
What awards did Howard Petrie win?
Howard Petrie did not receive any major awards or nominations during his career. As a character actor primarily in supporting roles, he was not typically recognized by major award ceremonies, though he was respected within the industry for his reliable performances.
What was Howard Petrie's acting style?
Petrie's acting style was characterized by his naturalistic approach and commanding presence. Standing 6'5" tall with a deep voice, he brought gravitas to authority figures without resorting to melodrama. His performances were understated yet powerful, making him believable as sheriffs, judges, and other authority figures in Westerns.
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Films
1 film
