Barry Sullivan
Actor
About Barry Sullivan
Barry Sullivan was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned over four decades in Hollywood's Golden Age. Born in New York City in 1912, he began his career on Broadway before transitioning to films in the late 1930s. Sullivan developed a reputation as a versatile leading man, equally adept at film noir, westerns, and dramas. He worked extensively with major studios including MGM, Warner Bros., and Universal Pictures, often playing sophisticated, sometimes cynical characters. His tall, commanding presence and distinctive voice made him a memorable figure in numerous classic films. Beyond his film work, Sullivan also found success on television in the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in popular series and made-for-TV movies. He continued acting well into the 1980s, maintaining his status as a respected character actor until his death in 1994.
The Craft
On Screen
Sullivan was known for his naturalistic, understated acting style that emphasized subtlety over theatricality. He brought a sense of world-weary sophistication to his roles, often playing characters with moral ambiguity or hidden depths. His performances were marked by a cool, controlled demeanor and a distinctive baritone voice that added gravitas to his dialogue delivery.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in 'I Want an Actor' (1936)
- Film contract with Universal Pictures (1939)
- Breakthrough role in 'The Great Man' (1956)
- Starring role in 'A Place in the Sun' (1951)
- Leading role in 'The Bad and the Beautiful' (1952)
- Television success with 'The Tall Man' (1960-1962)
- Final film appearance in 'The Last Days of Frankie the Fly' (1996)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
- Golden Boot Award (1984)
Nominated
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor for 'The Great Man' (1957)
- Emmy nomination for Outstanding Single Performance by an Actor for 'The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial' (1955)
Special Recognition
- Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1500 Vine Street
- Western Heritage Award for 'The Tall Man' television series
- Golden Boot Award for contributions to Western films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Barry Sullivan made significant contributions to Hollywood's Golden Age, particularly in the film noir and western genres. His ability to portray complex, morally ambiguous characters helped define the sophisticated anti-hero archetype that became popular in 1950s cinema. Sullivan's work in television during its golden age helped bridge the gap between classic Hollywood and modern media, demonstrating how established film stars could successfully transition to the small screen.
Lasting Legacy
Barry Sullivan's legacy endures through his extensive body of work that showcases the evolution of American cinema from the studio era to modern filmmaking. His performances in classics like 'A Place in the Sun' and 'The Bad and the Beautiful' continue to be studied by film scholars and appreciated by classic film enthusiasts. Sullivan represents the quintessential character actor who elevated every production he appeared in, bringing depth and authenticity to even supporting roles.
Who They Inspired
Sullivan influenced subsequent generations of actors through his naturalistic acting style and his ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety. His successful transition from film to television paved the way for other established film actors to embrace the new medium. Many contemporary character actors cite Sullivan's work as an example of how to create memorable, nuanced performances within the studio system.
Off Screen
Barry Sullivan was married three times throughout his life and had three children. His first marriage to Marie Brown ended in divorce, as did his second marriage to model Gita Hall. His third marriage to Joy Page lasted from 1955 until his death in 1994. Sullivan was known for being a private individual who kept his personal life out of the Hollywood spotlight. He was also an avid golfer and enjoyed sailing in his leisure time.
Education
Attended New York University and Temple University, studied drama at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre
Family
- Marie Brown (1937-1947)
- Gita Hall (1947-1955)
- Joy Page (1955-1994)
Did You Know?
- Served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II
- Was originally considered for the lead role in 'Sunset Boulevard' (1950)
- Stood 6'2" tall, making him one of the taller leading men of his era
- Was an accomplished amateur boxer before pursuing acting
- His third wife, Joy Page, was the daughter of Jack Warner of Warner Bros.
- Appeared in over 100 films and television productions during his career
- Was a close friend of fellow actor Robert Ryan
- Turned down the role of J.J. Hunsecker in 'Sweet Smell of Success' (1957)
- Was a licensed pilot and owned several aircraft
- His daughter Jenny Sullivan wrote a memoir about growing up in Hollywood
In Their Own Words
I've never been a star in the sense of being a box-office name. I'm an actor, and that's what I've always wanted to be.
The good thing about being a character actor is that you can play many different kinds of people. The bad thing is that sometimes people don't remember your name.
Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.
I never wanted to be a movie star. I wanted to be an actor. There's a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Barry Sullivan?
Barry Sullivan was a distinguished American actor active from the 1930s through the 1980s, known for his versatile performances in film noir, westerns, and dramas. He appeared in over 100 films and television productions, working with Hollywood's biggest stars and directors during the Golden Age of cinema.
What films is Barry Sullivan best known for?
Barry Sullivan is best known for his roles in 'A Place in the Sun' (1951), 'The Bad and the Beautiful' (1952), 'The Great Man' (1956), 'Cattle Queen of Montana' (1954), and 'Three Guys Named Mike' (1951). He also gained television fame as Sheriff Ben Trask in 'The Tall Man' series.
When was Barry Sullivan born and when did he die?
Barry Sullivan was born on August 29, 1912, in New York City, New York, and passed away on June 6, 1994, in Sherman Oaks, California, at the age of 81.
What awards did Barry Sullivan win?
Barry Sullivan received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and won the Golden Boot Award in 1984 for his contributions to Western films. He was also nominated for a Golden Globe for 'The Great Man' and an Emmy for 'The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial'.
What was Barry Sullivan's acting style?
Sullivan was known for his naturalistic, understated acting style characterized by subtlety and sophistication. He often played morally ambiguous characters with a cool, controlled demeanor and distinctive baritone voice, bringing depth and authenticity to every role.
Did Barry Sullivan work in television?
Yes, Barry Sullivan had a successful television career, most notably starring as Sheriff Ben Trask in 'The Tall Man' (1960-1962) and appearing in numerous made-for-TV movies and guest roles throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.
Was Barry Sullivan married?
Barry Sullivan was married three times: to Marie Brown (1937-1947), to model Gita Hall (1947-1955), and to actress Joy Page (1955-1994). He had three children from these marriages.
Learn More
Films
2 films
