Conrad Brooks
Actor
About Conrad Brooks
Conrad Brooks, born Conrad Biedrzycki, was an American character actor best known for his extensive collaborations with cult director Ed Wood Jr. His career began in the early 1950s when he answered a casting call for Wood's first feature film, Glen or Glenda (1953), marking the start of a long and prolific association with the infamous director. Brooks appeared in several of Wood's most notorious productions including Bride of the Monster (1955) and Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959), often playing police officers, soldiers, or other supporting roles. Despite the poor quality and limited success of these films, Brooks maintained a positive attitude and continued working in Hollywood for over six decades, appearing in hundreds of films and television shows. He became a beloved figure among cult film enthusiasts, frequently appearing at conventions and film screenings celebrating the work of Ed Wood. His persistence and dedication to acting, regardless of the production quality, made him a respected figure in the B-movie community. Brooks continued acting well into his 80s, making him one of the last surviving cast members from Wood's original films and a living connection to Hollywood's golden age of exploitation cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Earnest and sincere character actor who brought genuine enthusiasm to even the most poorly written roles. Brooks approached every part with professional dedication, whether playing a police officer, soldier, or various supporting characters. His natural, unpolished delivery style perfectly suited the low-budget productions he frequently appeared in, lending an authentic quality to the often-chaotic Ed Wood films.
Milestones
- First film role in Ed Wood's Glen or Glenda (1953)
- Regular collaborator with Ed Wood Jr.
- Cast member of Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959)
- Over 60-year acting career
- Last surviving principal cast member of Ed Wood's films
- Cult film convention favorite
- Continued acting into his 80s
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Cult Film Convention Guest of Honor (numerous conventions)
- Ed Wood Film Festival Recognition
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Conrad Brooks became an unlikely cultural icon as one of the key figures in the Ed Wood filmography, which has gained tremendous cult status over the decades. His presence in these notoriously 'bad' yet beloved films helped cement their place in cinema history as examples of outsider art and enthusiastic filmmaking despite limited resources. Brooks' continued participation in the cult film community through conventions and interviews helped preserve the memory and appreciation of Ed Wood's work for new generations. He represented the working actor who never gave up on their craft, regardless of the quality of the productions, inspiring others with his perseverance and positive attitude.
Lasting Legacy
Conrad Brooks' legacy is intrinsically tied to the cult film phenomenon and the posthumous acclaim for Ed Wood's films. As one of the last surviving cast members from these legendary B-movies, he served as a living connection to this unique period of Hollywood history. His career demonstrated the importance of character actors in creating memorable films, regardless of their critical reception or production values. Brooks' willingness to embrace his role in 'bad' cinema and celebrate it with fans helped redefine how such films are viewed and appreciated.
Who They Inspired
Brooks influenced the cult film community by showing that dedication to one's craft matters more than critical acclaim or commercial success. His example inspired other B-movie actors to take pride in their work and engage with fans who appreciate unconventional cinema. The continued interest in Ed Wood's films, partly due to Brooks' advocacy and participation in retrospectives, has influenced how film historians and enthusiasts approach the study of exploitation and cult cinema.
Off Screen
Conrad Brooks was married to Ann Brooks for many years until her death. He had children and maintained a relatively private personal life despite his public persona as a cult film icon. Brooks was known for his friendly demeanor and willingness to engage with fans, often sharing stories about his experiences working with Ed Wood and other Hollywood figures. He remained proud of his work in what many considered 'bad' movies, recognizing their entertainment value and the joy they brought to audiences.
Education
Limited information available about formal education; likely completed high school in Baltimore before moving to Hollywood
Family
- Ann Brooks
Did You Know?
- Born Conrad Biedrzycki, he shortened his name for acting
- Answered a newspaper ad to get his first role in Glen or Glenda
- Worked as a delivery driver between acting jobs
- Appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout his career
- Was one of the last surviving cast members of Plan 9 from Outer Space
- Continued acting in films until shortly before his death at age 86
- Polish-American heritage
- Never regretted his association with Ed Wood despite the films' poor reputation
- Often attended the annual Ed Wood film festivals and conventions
- His autobiography 'Cramped in a Hole' detailed his experiences in Hollywood
In Their Own Words
I'm proud of all my movies, even the bad ones. They were made with heart.
Working with Ed Wood was an adventure. He had so much passion for filmmaking.
I never thought Plan 9 would become famous. We were just trying to make a living.
The fans are wonderful. They keep these movies alive long after we made them.
Every role was important to me. I gave it my all, whether it was one line or twenty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Conrad Brooks?
Conrad Brooks was an American character actor best known for his work with cult director Ed Wood Jr., appearing in films like Glen or Glenda and Plan 9 from Outer Space. He had a career spanning over six decades in Hollywood, becoming a beloved figure among cult film enthusiasts.
What films is Conrad Brooks best known for?
Brooks is most famous for his roles in Ed Wood films including Glen or Glenda (1953), Bride of the Monster (1955), and Plan 9 from Outer Space (1959). He also appeared in The Violent Years (1956) and Night of the Ghouls (1959).
When was Conrad Brooks born and when did he die?
Conrad Brooks was born on January 3, 1931, in Baltimore, Maryland, and passed away on December 6, 2017, at the age of 86, making him one of the last surviving cast members from Ed Wood's original films.
What awards did Conrad Brooks win?
While Brooks didn't receive major industry awards, he was honored at numerous cult film conventions and Ed Wood film festivals, becoming a celebrated figure among fans of B-movies and exploitation cinema.
What was Conrad Brooks's acting style?
Brooks was known for his earnest and sincere approach to every role, bringing genuine enthusiasm to even the most poorly written characters. His natural, unpolished delivery style perfectly suited the low-budget productions he frequently appeared in.
How did Conrad Brooks get started in acting?
Brooks began his acting career after answering a newspaper casting call for Ed Wood's Glen or Glenda in 1953. This led to a long collaboration with Wood and launched his six-decade career in Hollywood.
What was Conrad Brooks's connection to Ed Wood?
Brooks was one of Ed Wood's regular collaborators, appearing in multiple films including Glen or Glenda, Bride of the Monster, and Plan 9 from Outer Space. He remained a proud supporter of Wood's work throughout his life.
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Films
1 film
