Robert Kent
Actor
About Robert Kent
Robert Kent, born Douglas Blackley, was a prolific American actor who graced Hollywood screens during the Golden Age of cinema. After beginning his career on Broadway and working as a model, he transitioned to film in the early 1930s, quickly establishing himself as a reliable character actor and occasional leading man. Throughout his career spanning from the 1930s to the early 1950s, Kent appeared in over 100 films, showcasing his versatility across multiple genres including westerns, film noir, science fiction, and dramas. He worked with major studios like Universal, Republic Pictures, and Columbia Pictures, often playing authority figures, romantic leads, or supporting characters. His career peaked during the 1930s and 1940s when he was a familiar face in B-movies and supporting roles in larger productions. Despite never achieving major stardom, Kent's consistent work ethic and professional demeanor made him a valuable asset to Hollywood studios during a transformative period in American cinema. His final film appearances came in the early 1950s before he retired from acting.
The Craft
On Screen
Kent was known for his clean-cut, All-American appearance and professional acting style that made him particularly suitable for playing authority figures, military officers, doctors, and romantic leads. His delivery was straightforward and earnest, fitting well within the studio system's requirements for reliable character actors. While not particularly known for method acting or intense emotional performances, Kent brought a sense of credibility and stability to his roles, making him a dependable presence in ensemble casts.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in the early 1930s
- Film debut in 1932
- Appeared in over 100 films
- Co-starred with Bela Lugosi in The Phantom Creeps (1939)
- Transitioned successfully from leading man to character actor
- Consistent work through World War II years
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (not verified)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Robert Kent represents the quintessential character actor of Hollywood's Golden Age - the reliable professional who supported the stars while bringing credibility to every production. His work in genre films, particularly horror and science fiction, contributed to the development of these popular genres during their formative years. While never a household name, Kent's consistent presence in hundreds of films helped maintain the quality and continuity of American cinema during its most productive era. His clean-cut persona and professional demeanor exemplified the studio system's ideal of the dependable character actor.
Lasting Legacy
Robert Kent's legacy lies in his substantial contribution to American popular cinema as one of the most prolific character actors of his generation. His filmography serves as a valuable record of the types of supporting roles that were essential to the Hollywood studio system. Today, film historians and classic movie enthusiasts appreciate his work as representative of the thousands of professional actors who formed the backbone of Golden Age Hollywood. His appearances in cult classics like 'The Phantom Creeps' have ensured that his work continues to be discovered by new generations of classic film fans.
Who They Inspired
While not widely recognized as an influential figure in terms of acting technique or style, Kent's professional approach and longevity in the industry served as a model for character actors who followed. His ability to transition from leading man roles to character parts demonstrated the adaptability required for sustained success in Hollywood. His work in genre films helped establish conventions for supporting characters in horror and science fiction that would influence subsequent generations of actors in these fields.
Off Screen
Robert Kent was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to actress Greta Granstedt, with whom he had one child. The marriage ended in divorce. He later married actress Veda Ann Borg, another prolific character actor of the era, with whom he remained until his death. Kent was known among his colleagues as a professional and reliable actor who maintained good relationships with studio executives and fellow performers. After retiring from acting, he lived a relatively private life away from the Hollywood spotlight.
Education
Educated in Massachusetts public schools, later studied drama at local theater groups
Family
- Greta Granstedt (1934-1942)
- Veda Ann Borg (1946-1980)
Did You Know?
- Born Douglas Blackley but changed his name to Robert Kent for his acting career
- Appeared in over 100 films during his 20-year career
- Was married to fellow character actor Veda Ann Borg for 34 years until his death
- Served in the entertainment division during World War II
- Began his career as a Broadway actor before transitioning to films
- Often played military officers due to his authoritative presence
- Worked consistently through the Great Depression and World War II years
- His final film appearances were in the early 1950s
- Never received major awards but was respected for his professionalism
- His films continue to be shown on classic movie channels and at film festivals
In Their Own Words
Acting is not about becoming famous, it's about becoming good at your craft
Every role, no matter how small, deserves the same professional dedication
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Robert Kent?
Robert Kent was a prolific American character actor who appeared in over 100 films during Hollywood's Golden Age, primarily in the 1930s and 1940s. Born Douglas Blackley, he was known for his clean-cut appearance and professional acting style, often playing authority figures and supporting roles in various genres including horror, westerns, and dramas.
What films is Robert Kent best known for?
Robert Kent is best remembered for his appearances in 'The Phantom Creeps' (1939) alongside Bela Lugosi, 'Wild Weed' (1949), 'The Mummy's Ghost' (1944), and 'The Great Flamarion' (1945). He also appeared in numerous other films across multiple genres, establishing himself as a reliable character actor throughout his career.
When was Robert Kent born and when did he die?
Robert Kent was born on December 5, 1901, in Brookline, Massachusetts, and passed away on May 24, 1980, at the age of 78. His birth name was Douglas Blackley, and he lived most of his adult life in California while working in the film industry.
What awards did Robert Kent win?
Robert Kent did not receive major industry awards during his career, which was common for character actors of his era. However, he was respected within the Hollywood community for his professionalism and consistent work ethic, appearing in over 100 films throughout his two-decade career.
What was Robert Kent's acting style?
Robert Kent was known for his straightforward, professional acting style characterized by earnest delivery and a clean-cut, All-American appearance. He excelled at playing authority figures, military officers, and romantic leads, bringing credibility and stability to his roles without resorting to overly dramatic or method-style performances.
Was Robert Kent married?
Yes, Robert Kent was married twice. His first marriage was to actress Greta Granstedt (1934-1942), with whom he had one child. He later married fellow character actor Veda Ann Borg in 1946, and they remained together until his death in 1980.
How many films did Robert Kent appear in?
Robert Kent appeared in over 100 films during his career from 1932 to 1952. His filmography spans multiple genres and includes work with major studios like Universal, Republic Pictures, and Columbia Pictures, making him one of the more prolific character actors of his generation.
Learn More
Films
2 films
