Rex Bell
Actor
About Rex Bell
Rex Bell, born George Francis Beldam, was a prominent figure in the transition from silent films to talkies, primarily carving out a niche as a rugged Western hero. Born in Chicago in 1903, he moved to California as a youth and was eventually discovered by Fox Film Corporation, which initially groomed him as a potential successor to the legendary Tom Mix. His career flourished in the early 1930s through a series of 'B' Westerns where his athletic build and natural charisma made him a favorite among matinee audiences. In 1930, he starred in 'True to the Navy' alongside the iconic 'It Girl' Clara Bow; the two fell in love and married in 1931, a union that lasted until his death. Following his primary acting years, Bell transitioned into a highly successful second career in Nevada politics, serving as the state's Lieutenant Governor for nearly eight years. He remained a beloved public figure, balancing his Hollywood legacy with a dedicated life of public service until his sudden death from a heart attack in 1962 while campaigning for the governorship.
The Craft
On Screen
Rex Bell was known for a naturalistic, rugged screen presence that epitomized the 'all-American' cowboy hero. Unlike some of the more flamboyant Western stars of the era, Bell's style was characterized by a quiet sincerity and physical capability, often performing his own stunts and horse riding. His transition to sound was seamless due to a clear, resonant voice that suited his authoritative yet friendly persona.
Milestones
- Signed by Fox Film Corporation in 1928 as a Western leading man
- Starred in over 40 films, primarily in the Western genre during the 1930s
- Founded the famous Walking Box Ranch in Searchlight, Nevada, in 1931
- Elected as the 21st Lieutenant Governor of Nevada in 1954
- Re-elected as Lieutenant Governor in 1958, serving under both Republican and Democratic governors
- Made a memorable final screen appearance in John Huston's 'The Misfits' (1961)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Boot Award (Posthumous, 1994) for significant contributions to the Western genre
Special Recognition
- Rex Bell Elementary School in Las Vegas named in his honor
- Inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Grand Marshal of the Nevada Day Parade
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Rex Bell represented the bridge between the mythic Hollywood cowboy and the real-world Western statesman. His marriage to Clara Bow was one of the most talked-about unions of the early 1930s, symbolizing a shift from the 'Jazz Age' excess to a more grounded, rural lifestyle. In Nevada, he is remembered as a 'Goodwill Ambassador' who helped modernize the state's political image while maintaining its rugged frontier identity.
Lasting Legacy
Bell's legacy is twofold: he remains a significant figure in the history of 'B' Westerns and a pivotal figure in Nevada's political history. The Walking Box Ranch is now a protected historic site, serving as a monument to his and Clara Bow's life together. His transition from screen hero to respected politician set a precedent for later actor-politicians like Ronald Reagan.
Who They Inspired
He influenced the 'cowboy statesman' archetype, proving that the popularity gained in Western films could be effectively translated into a career in public service. His clean-cut, dependable image helped define the standard for Western leads in the early sound era.
Off Screen
Bell's personal life was famously intertwined with that of Clara Bow, whom he met on the set of 'True to the Navy.' He was credited by many as being a stabilizing force in Bow's often tumultuous life, providing her with a refuge from the pressures of Hollywood at their Nevada ranch. The couple was known for their hospitality at the Walking Box Ranch, which became a desert getaway for many of Hollywood's elite.
Education
Hollywood High School (Class of 1923)
Family
- Clara Bow (1931-1962)
Did You Know?
- He was born George Beldam but took the name Rex Bell because it sounded more like a Western star.
- He died on the 4th of July, just hours after attending a political rally and picnic in Las Vegas.
- Bell was a star athlete in high school and was rumored to have played college football, though records are debated.
- He hosted a television show called 'Cowboys and Injuns' in 1950.
- His final film, 'The Misfits,' was also the final film for both Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe.
- He and Clara Bow operated a 'Bell & Bow' cafe in Hollywood for a short time in the late 1930s.
- He was the first Republican to be elected Lieutenant Governor of Nevada in over 20 years when he won in 1954.
In Their Own Words
I've always felt that the cowboy is the most honest character in American history.
Nevada is a land of opportunity, much like the frontier I used to play on screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Rex Bell?
Rex Bell was an American Western film star of the 1920s and 30s who later became a prominent politician, serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Nevada.
What films is Rex Bell best known for?
He is best known for 'True to the Navy' (1930), 'Broadway to Cheyenne' (1932), 'The Idaho Kid' (1936), and his final role in the classic 'The Misfits' (1961).
When was Rex Bell born and when did he die?
He was born on October 16, 1903, in Chicago and passed away on July 4, 1962, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Who was Rex Bell married to?
He was married to the legendary silent film star Clara Bow, known as the 'It Girl,' from 1931 until his death in 1962.
What was Rex Bell's political career?
Bell was a leader in the Nevada Republican Party and served as the 21st Lieutenant Governor of Nevada from 1955 to 1962.
Learn More
Films
1 film
