William Harrigan
Actor
About William Harrigan
William Harrigan was a distinguished American stage and screen actor whose career spanned over six decades, beginning as a child performer in the late 19th century. Born into a legendary theatrical dynasty, he was the son of the famed vaudeville star Edward Harrigan and the grandson of composer David Braham. After attending the New York Military Academy, Harrigan established himself as a versatile character actor on Broadway, making his debut in 'Old Lavender' (1906). During World War I, he served with distinction as a captain in the 77th Division, famously leading a raid that assisted in the rescue of the 'Lost Battalion' in the Argonne Forest. Transitioning to film during the early talkie era, he became a reliable supporting player in Hollywood, appearing in classics such as 'The Invisible Man' (1933) and 'G Men' (1935). He is perhaps most celebrated for creating the role of the tyrannical Captain Morton in the original Broadway production of 'Mister Roberts', a part he played for over 1,100 performances. Harrigan remained active in the industry until the mid-1950s, bridging the gap between the golden age of vaudeville and the rise of modern television.
The Craft
On Screen
Harrigan was known for his 'reliable, general, all-purpose' acting style, which allowed him to transition seamlessly between comedy and drama. He possessed a commanding presence, often utilized to play authoritative figures, military officers, or stern antagonists. His stage-trained voice and disciplined delivery made him a favorite for early sound films, where he could project both warmth and menace with equal effectiveness.
Milestones
- Stage debut at age five in 'Reilly and the 400' (1899)
- Broadway debut in 'Old Lavender' (1906)
- Served as a Captain in the 307th Infantry Regiment during WWI
- Portrayed Dr. Arthur Kemp in the horror classic 'The Invisible Man' (1933)
- Created the iconic role of Captain Morton in the Broadway hit 'Mister Roberts' (1948)
- Played the lead in the Broadway adaptation of 'Charlie Chan: Keeper of the Keys' (1933)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery
- Silver Star recipient (WWI)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
As a member of the Harrigan and Hart legacy, William carried the torch of one of the most influential families in American musical theater history into the 20th century. His transition from the stage to early sound cinema helped establish the 'character actor' archetype—the dependable professional who adds gravitas to a production without needing top billing. His portrayal of the Captain in 'Mister Roberts' became the definitive template for the role, influencing how military authority was depicted on the American stage for years.
Lasting Legacy
Harrigan's legacy is defined by his incredible longevity and his ability to adapt to the changing landscape of American entertainment. He is remembered as a 'soldier-actor' who balanced a heroic military career with a prolific artistic one. His performance in 'The Invisible Man' remains a touchstone for fans of classic horror, while his extensive Broadway credits ensure his place in the annals of New York theater history.
Who They Inspired
He influenced a generation of character actors by demonstrating that a career built on supporting roles could be just as prestigious and enduring as one built on stardom. His work in the 'Lost Battalion' rescue also made him a figure of respect in both the military and civilian sectors, blending real-world heroism with his on-screen personas.
Off Screen
Harrigan was part of a major theatrical family; his sister Nedda Harrigan was a noted actress and the wife of director Joshua Logan. He was married three times, all to women involved in the arts. His first marriage was to Dorothy Langdon, followed by a marriage to the musical comedy star Louise Groody. At the time of his death in 1966, he was married to Grace Culbert.
Education
New York Military Academy
Family
- Dorothy Langdon
- Louise Groody
- Grace Culbert
Did You Know?
- He was a real-life war hero who helped rescue the 'Lost Battalion' during World War I.
- He played the role of the Captain in 'Mister Roberts' for 1,158 consecutive performances.
- His family's acting lineage reportedly traced back uninterrupted to 1660.
- He was the leading man for the 1929 summer stock season at Denver's historic Elitch Theatre.
- He made his first stage appearance at the age of five alongside his father.
- He was the brother-in-law of the legendary director and playwright Joshua Logan.
- He died following surgery at St. Luke's Hospital in New York City.
In Their Own Words
I've played everything from a five-year-old in my father's shows to a dictatorial captain on Broadway; the secret is just showing up and knowing your lines.
The theater is in my blood—it's been in the family since the 1600s, so I didn't have much of a choice in the matter!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was William Harrigan?
William Harrigan was a prominent American character actor known for his work on Broadway and in classic Hollywood films. He was the son of vaudeville legend Edward Harrigan and is best remembered for his role in 'The Invisible Man' and the stage play 'Mister Roberts'.
What films is William Harrigan best known for?
He is most famous for playing Dr. Arthur Kemp in 'The Invisible Man' (1933) and 'Mac' McKay in the gangster classic 'G Men' (1935). He also appeared in 'Born Reckless' (1930) and 'The Farmer's Daughter' (1947).
Was William Harrigan in the military?
Yes, he was a highly decorated Captain in the U.S. Army during World War I. He was involved in the famous rescue of the 'Lost Battalion' in the Argonne Forest and was later buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
What was William Harrigan's most famous stage role?
His most iconic stage role was Captain Morton in the original Broadway production of 'Mister Roberts', which ran from 1948 to 1951. He performed the role over 1,000 times and reprised it in a 1956 revival.
When was William Harrigan born and when did he die?
He was born on March 27, 1894, in New York City and passed away on February 1, 1966, at the age of 71 following a surgery.
Learn More
Films
1 film
