Gregory Walcott
Actor
About Gregory Walcott
Gregory Walcott was an American character actor who enjoyed a remarkably prolific career spanning over five decades in Hollywood. Born Bernard Wasdon Mattox in North Carolina, he served in the United States Army during World War II before pursuing his passion for acting in California. His most famous role came as airline pilot Jeff Trent in Ed Wood's infamous 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' (1957), a film that would later achieve cult status as one of the worst movies ever made. Throughout his extensive career, Walcott appeared in more than 200 films and television productions, often cast in authoritative roles such as sheriffs, military officers, and businessmen due to his imposing 6'2" stature and commanding screen presence. He worked consistently through the golden age of television, appearing in iconic series like 'Bonanza,' 'The Andy Griffith Show,' 'Perry Mason,' and 'The Fugitive.' In later years, he had memorable supporting roles in major films including 'The Sting' (1973) opposite Paul Newman and Robert Redford, 'Norma Rae' (1979) with Sally Field, and Clint Eastwood's 'Pink Cadillac' (1989). Walcott continued acting well into his 80s, with his final screen appearance coming in the comedy 'Joe Dirt' (2001). He passed away in 2015 at the age of 100, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of Hollywood's most reliable and recognizable character actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Walcott was known for his naturalistic, no-nonsense acting style that made him perfect for playing authority figures. He brought a sense of authenticity and gravitas to every role, whether playing a sheriff, military officer, or businessman. His performances were characterized by a steady, understated delivery that made his characters believable and relatable, even in the most outlandish productions. He had a particular talent for conveying authority without appearing threatening, making him a favorite among directors for roles requiring a firm but fair presence.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' (1957)
- Appeared in 'The Sting' (1973)
- Supporting role in 'Norma Rae' (1979)
- Over 200 film and television appearances
- Worked with Hollywood legends including Clint Eastwood, Paul Newman, and Sally Field
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Cult film icon status for 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'
- Recognized at film festivals for contributions to B-movie cinema
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Gregory Walcott's most significant cultural impact comes from his role in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space,' which has become one of the most famous cult films in cinema history. The movie's reputation as 'the worst film ever made' has paradoxically made Walcott a beloved figure among B-movie enthusiasts and midnight movie crowds. His deadpan performance as airline pilot Jeff Trent provided a grounding presence in an otherwise chaotic film, and his serious delivery of absurd dialogue has made the character memorable decades later. The film's enduring popularity has led to Walcott being featured in documentaries about bad movies and has made him a regular guest at cult film conventions.
Lasting Legacy
Gregory Walcott leaves behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most reliable character actors, a man who worked steadily for nearly five decades without ever becoming a major star. His filmography represents a cross-section of American popular culture from the 1950s through the early 2000s, appearing in everything from B-movie cult classics to Academy Award-winning films. While 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' remains his most famous role, his extensive body of work demonstrates the importance of character actors in creating believable worlds on screen. His career serves as a testament to the value of professionalism, reliability, and craft in the entertainment industry.
Who They Inspired
Walcott influenced generations of character actors through his example of professionalism and versatility. His ability to play authority figures with authenticity set a standard for supporting actors in Hollywood. His work in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' has influenced how actors approach roles in films that are intentionally camp or 'so bad they're good,' showing that taking even the most absurd material seriously can create memorable entertainment. Younger actors studying his performances learn the value of commitment to character regardless of the material's quality.
Off Screen
Gregory Walcott was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Barbara Billingsley, who would later become famous as June Cleaver on 'Leave It to Beaver.' Their marriage lasted from 1954 to 1964. He later married Rhoda Wynn in 1970, and they remained together until his death in 2015. Walcott was known as a private person who rarely discussed his personal life in interviews, preferring to let his work speak for itself. He lived in California for most of his adult life and was described by colleagues as a consummate professional who was always prepared and reliable on set.
Education
Limited information available about his formal education, though he attended local schools in North Carolina before serving in the military
Family
- Barbara Billingsley (1954-1964)
- Rhoda Wynn (1970-2015)
Did You Know?
- His birth name was Bernard Wasdon Mattox
- He was married to Barbara Billingsley (June Cleaver from 'Leave It to Beaver') for 10 years
- He lived to be 100 years old
- Despite being in one of cinema's most famous 'bad movies,' he had a successful career appearing in over 200 productions
- He served in the U.S. Army during World War II
- His role in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' was his most famous but far from his only work
- He appeared in the Oscar-winning film 'The Sting'
- He worked with some of Hollywood's biggest stars including Paul Newman, Robert Redford, and Clint Eastwood
- He often played authority figures due to his height and commanding presence
- His final film appearance was in 'Joe Dirt' (2001) when he was in his 80s
In Their Own Words
'You see a flying saucer? You see the Martians? You're all drunk!' - as Jeff Trent in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'
'I've been a pilot for fifteen years, and I've never seen anything like this.' - as Jeff Trent in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space'
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gregory Walcott?
Gregory Walcott was an American character actor who appeared in over 200 films and television productions during a career spanning nearly five decades. Born Bernard Wasdon Mattox, he is best known for his role as airline pilot Jeff Trent in Ed Wood's infamous 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' (1957), but he also appeared in major films like 'The Sting' and 'Norma Rae.'
What films is Gregory Walcott best known for?
While Walcott appeared in over 200 productions, he is best known for 'Plan 9 from Outer Space' (1957), which has achieved cult status as one of cinema's most famous 'bad movies.' He also had notable roles in 'The Sting' (1973), 'Norma Rae' (1979), 'Pink Cadillac' (1989), and 'Joe Dirt' (2001).
When was Gregory Walcott born and when did he die?
Gregory Walcott was born on January 13, 1915, in Wendell, North Carolina, and passed away on March 20, 2015, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 100. His birth name was Bernard Wasdon Mattox.
What awards did Gregory Walcott win?
Gregory Walcott did not receive major industry awards during his career, though he achieved cult status for his work in 'Plan 9 from Outer Space.' His legacy is recognized through the enduring popularity of his films and his reputation as a reliable character actor rather than through formal accolades.
What was Gregory Walcott's acting style?
Walcott was known for his naturalistic, understated acting style that made him perfect for authority figures. He brought authenticity and gravitas to roles as sheriffs, military officers, and businessmen, using a steady, no-nonsense delivery that made his characters believable even in the most outlandish productions.
Was Gregory Walcott married to anyone famous?
Yes, Walcott was married to Barbara Billingsley from 1954 to 1964. Billingsley would later become famous for her role as June Cleaver in the classic television series 'Leave It to Beaver.' His second marriage was to Rhoda Wynn, whom he married in 1970 and remained with until his death.
How long was Gregory Walcott's acting career?
Walcott's acting career spanned approximately 46 years, from his first film appearances in the mid-1950s through his final role in 'Joe Dirt' in 2001. During this time, he appeared in over 200 film and television productions, working steadily through multiple decades of Hollywood history.
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Films
1 film
