Bobby Jordan
Actor
About Bobby Jordan
Bobby Jordan was a prominent child actor and teen star of the 1930s and 1940s, best known for his role as one of the original Dead End Kids. Born Robert J. Jordan Jr. in 1923, he began his acting career at age 6, appearing in Broadway productions before transitioning to film. Jordan gained national attention when he was cast alongside other young actors in the Broadway play 'Dead End' in 1935, which led to their film adaptation in 1937. He continued with the group through their evolution into the East Side Kids and later the Bowery Boys, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in these popular film series. Throughout his career, Jordan appeared in over 80 films, typically playing the tough but good-hearted street kid character. His career declined in the late 1940s as he aged out of the juvenile roles that had made him famous, and he struggled with personal issues including alcoholism. Despite his early success, Jordan's life ended tragically at age 42 from complications of cirrhosis of the liver.
The Craft
On Screen
Naturalistic street-wise delivery with authentic tough kid persona, often playing the more level-headed member of the gang with a heart of gold. Jordan's acting style was characterized by his genuine New York accent and mannerisms, which brought authenticity to his roles as urban youth. He had a knack for balancing toughness with vulnerability, making his characters relatable to audiences of the era.
Milestones
- Original member of the Dead End Kids (1937)
- Starred in over 80 films
- Transitioned from Broadway to Hollywood success
- Appeared in the 'East Side Kids' series
- Member of the early 'Bowery Boys' films
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (for contributions to motion pictures)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Bobby Jordan and the Dead End Kids created a new archetype in American cinema - the urban street youth with a moral compass beneath their tough exterior. Their films reflected the realities of Great Depression-era urban life and gave voice to working-class youth culture. The group's popularity led to numerous imitations and established the template for future youth ensemble films and television shows. Jordan's portrayal of the more thoughtful gang member helped establish the 'brains of the outfit' character type that would become a staple in youth-oriented entertainment.
Lasting Legacy
Bobby Jordan remains an iconic figure in the history of American cinema as one of the original Dead End Kids, a group that defined an entire genre of youth-oriented films. His work helped establish the importance of authentic youth representation in Hollywood and paved the way for future ensemble casts in teen films. The Dead End Kids/East Side Kids/Bowery Boys franchise became one of the most successful and long-running series in film history, with Jordan being a crucial element in its early success. His performances continue to be studied by film historians as examples of naturalistic child acting in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Who They Inspired
Jordan's natural acting style and authentic portrayal of street-wise youth influenced generations of young actors, particularly in ensemble casts. His ability to convey both toughness and vulnerability created a template for the 'thinking member' of youth gangs in films and television. The success of the Dead End Kids films that he helped create directly influenced later productions like 'The Little Rascals,' 'Our Gang,' and eventually television shows like 'The Little Rascals' revival and modern youth ensemble programming.
Off Screen
Bobby Jordan married twice, first to actress Betty Lou Keim in 1949, though the marriage ended in divorce. His second marriage was to a woman named Elizabeth in the early 1950s. He had one son, Robert Jordan III. Jordan struggled with alcoholism in his later years, which contributed to his declining health and career opportunities. His personal difficulties were exacerbated by the challenge of transitioning from child star to adult actor in Hollywood.
Education
Limited formal education due to early entry into show business; attended public schools in New York before focusing on his acting career
Family
- Betty Lou Keim (1949-1951)
- Elizabeth (early 1950s-1965)
Did You Know?
- Was the youngest member of the original Dead End Kids at age 14
- Began his career at age 6 in Broadway productions
- Was discovered by Samuel Goldwyn while performing in a school play
- Served in the U.S. Army during World War II
- Was the only Dead End Kid to appear in all three major incarnations (Dead End Kids, East Side Kids, and Bowery Boys)
- His mother was a Broadway actress who encouraged his early career
- Was paid $75 per week for his role in the original 'Dead End' Broadway production
- Left the Bowery Boys series in 1943 due to salary disputes
- Worked as a bartender in his final years to support himself
- His Hollywood Walk of Fame star is located at 6644 Hollywood Boulevard
In Their Own Words
"We weren't acting, we were just being ourselves on screen. That's why people liked us." (Interview about the Dead End Kids)
"The hardest part about being a kid actor is growing up. They don't want you anymore when you're not a kid." (On transitioning to adult roles)
"We were like brothers off-screen too. That's what made it work." (About his relationship with fellow Dead End Kids)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bobby Jordan?
Bobby Jordan was an American child and teen actor best known as one of the original members of the Dead End Kids, appearing in over 80 films from the 1930s through the 1940s. He was famous for playing tough but good-hearted street kids in popular film series like the Dead End Kids, East Side Kids, and early Bowery Boys films.
What films is Bobby Jordan best known for?
Jordan is best known for 'Dead End' (1937), 'Angels with Dirty Faces' (1938), 'Boys of the City' (1940), 'Spooks Run Wild' (1941), and numerous East Side Kids and Bowery Boys films. His most iconic work was with the Dead End Kids ensemble cast.
When was Bobby Jordan born and when did he die?
Bobby Jordan was born on September 1, 1923, in Harrison, New York, and died on August 25, 1965, at age 42 from complications of cirrhosis of the liver.
What awards did Bobby Jordan win?
While Bobby Jordan did not win major acting awards during his lifetime, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to motion pictures, recognizing his significant impact as part of the Dead End Kids film series.
What was Bobby Jordan's acting style?
Jordan was known for his naturalistic, authentic portrayal of street-wise youth, using his genuine New York accent and mannerisms. He specialized in playing the more thoughtful, level-headed member of youth gangs, balancing toughness with underlying vulnerability.
Learn More
Films
2 films
