Clarence Kolb
Actor
About Clarence Kolb
Clarence William Kolb was a distinguished American character actor whose career spanned from the silent era through the Golden Age of Hollywood. Born in 1874, Kolb began his entertainment career in vaudeville as part of the comedy duo Kolb and Dill, which was extremely popular in the early 1900s. After his vaudeville partner retired in 1916, Kolb transitioned to legitimate theater and eventually made his way to Hollywood in the early 1930s. He became typecast as authoritative figures, frequently playing mayors, judges, newspaper editors, and business executives. His most memorable role came in Howard Hawks' screwball comedy 'His Girl Friday' (1940), where he portrayed the blustering newspaper publisher Walter Burns. Kolb continued working steadily through the 1940s and early 1950s, appearing in over 100 films before his retirement. He passed away in 1964, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most reliable character actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Kolb was known for his booming voice, authoritative presence, and ability to play both comic and serious authority figures with equal skill. He specialized in portraying blustering, often pompous characters who could be both intimidating and humorous. His delivery was precise and his timing impeccable, making him particularly effective in screwball comedies. Kolb brought a theatrical gravitas to his roles, drawing from his extensive stage experience.
Milestones
- Successful vaudeville career with Kolb and Dill
- Transition to Hollywood films in 1930s
- Memorable role in 'His Girl Friday' (1940)
- Prolific character actor appearing in 100+ films
- Typecast as authority figures in comedies and dramas
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (6363 Hollywood Blvd)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Clarence Kolb contributed significantly to the Golden Age of Hollywood by providing memorable supporting performances that anchored many classic films. His work in screwball comedies helped define the genre's tone, particularly through his role in 'His Girl Friday'. Kolb represented the transition from vaudeville to Hollywood cinema, bringing theatrical techniques to the screen that influenced film acting styles. His portrayals of authority figures reflected American attitudes toward power and bureaucracy during the 1930s and 1940s.
Lasting Legacy
Kolb's legacy endures through his extensive filmography, with 'His Girl Friday' remaining a beloved classic that showcases his talents. He is remembered as one of Hollywood's most dependable character actors, capable of elevating any film with his presence. His work exemplifies the importance of supporting actors in creating memorable cinema, and his transition from vaudeville to film serves as a model for performers adapting to new entertainment mediums.
Who They Inspired
Kolb influenced subsequent generations of character actors through his technique of blending authority with comedy. His precise timing and vocal delivery became reference points for actors playing similar roles. The archetype of the blustering but ultimately harmless authority figure that Kolb perfected continues to appear in films and television today.
Off Screen
Clarence Kolb was married to actress Mabel Taliaferro, with whom he had two children. The family was well-established in Hollywood social circles. Kolb was known for his professionalism and reliability on set, earning respect from directors and fellow actors alike. He maintained a relatively private personal life despite his public career.
Education
Limited formal education, trained in vaudeville and theater
Family
- Mabel Taliaferro (1910-1964)
Did You Know?
- Began his career as half of the popular vaudeville duo Kolb and Dill
- His vaudeville partner Max Dill retired in 1916, leading Kolb to pursue other opportunities
- Made his film debut relatively late in life at age 56
- Often played characters much older than his actual age
- His distinctive voice made him a popular choice for radio work in addition to films
- Appeared in three films released in 1940 that are now considered classics
- Was typecast so frequently as mayors that he jokingly said he could run for office
- His daughter Virginia also became an actress
- Worked steadily through the Great Depression when many actors struggled
- Retired from acting in 1951 after appearing in over 100 films
In Their Own Words
As Walter Burns in 'His Girl Friday': 'The last man who said that to me was Archie Leach just a week before he cut his throat.'
Various characters: 'I've been in this business for thirty years, and I know what I'm talking about.'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Clarence Kolb?
Clarence Kolb was an American character actor who began his career in vaudeville as part of the popular duo Kolb and Dill before transitioning to Hollywood films. He was known for playing authority figures and appeared in over 100 films during his career, most notably in 'His Girl Friday' (1940).
What films is Clarence Kolb best known for?
Kolb is best known for his role as Walter Burns in Howard Hawks' 'His Girl Friday' (1940). Other notable films include 'The Great McGinty' (1940), 'The Bank Dick' (1940) with W.C. Fields, 'The Man Who Came to Dinner' (1942), and 'The Big Clock' (1948).
When was Clarence Kolb born and when did he die?
Clarence Kolb was born on July 31, 1874, in Cleveland, Ohio, and passed away on November 25, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 90. He lived through the entire transition from vaudeville to the Golden Age of Hollywood.
What awards did Clarence Kolb win?
While Clarence Kolb did not receive major acting awards or Academy Award nominations, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6363 Hollywood Blvd for his contributions to the film industry. His legacy lies in his extensive body of work rather than formal accolades.
What was Clarence Kolb's acting style?
Kolb was known for his booming voice, authoritative presence, and precise timing. He specialized in playing blustering authority figures who could be both intimidating and humorous. His theatrical background from vaudeville gave him a distinctive gravitas that made him particularly effective in both comedies and dramas.
How did Clarence Kolb start his career?
Kolb began his entertainment career in vaudeville as part of the comedy duo Kolb and Dill, which was extremely popular in the early 1900s. After his partner retired in 1916, he transitioned to legitimate theater before eventually making his way to Hollywood films in the early 1930s.
Was Clarence Kolb married?
Yes, Clarence Kolb was married to actress Mabel Taliaferro from 1910 until his death in 1964. They had two children together, a son named Kolb Taliaferro and a daughter named Virginia, who also became an actress.
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Films
1 film
