Anthony Dexter
Actor
About Anthony Dexter
Anthony Dexter, born Walter Reinhold Alfred Flebig, was an American actor who rose to brief prominence in the early 1950s playing historical and romantic leading roles. He was discovered while working as a theater actor and signed by Columbia Pictures, who promoted him as a potential successor to romantic leading men like Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power. Dexter's breakthrough role came in 1951 when he portrayed silent film star Rudolph Valentino in the biographical film 'Valentino,' which showcased his striking resemblance to the legendary actor. Throughout the 1950s, he appeared in a series of swashbuckling and adventure films, including 'The Brigand' (1952) and 'Captain John Smith and Pocahontas' (1953), often playing historical figures or romantic heroes. His career began to decline by the mid-1950s as his films received modest success and he struggled to establish a unique identity beyond being a Valentino look-alike. By the 1960s, his career had largely transitioned to supporting roles in lower-budget productions, with 'The Phantom Planet' (1961) being one of his final film appearances. Dexter retired from acting in the early 1960s and lived a relatively private life until his death.
The Craft
On Screen
Dexter was known for his dramatic, theatrical style reminiscent of classic Hollywood leading men. He employed a formal, slightly exaggerated delivery that suited period pieces and adventure films. His physical bearing and romantic demeanor were his strongest assets, though critics often noted his performances lacked the depth and spontaneity of more established stars.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role as Rudolph Valentino in 'Valentino' (1951)
- Leading roles in Columbia Pictures adventure films
- Portrayal of Captain John Smith in 'Captain John Smith and Pocahontas' (1953)
- Starred in 'The Brigand' (1952) opposite Jody Lawrence
- Final film appearance in 'The Phantom Planet' (1961)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Anthony Dexter's impact on cinema was relatively limited but notable within the context of 1950s Hollywood casting practices. He represents the industry's tendency during this period to promote actors based on physical resemblance to established stars rather than unique talent. His portrayal of Rudolph Valentino contributed to the ongoing fascination with silent film legends during the early 1950s, reflecting Hollywood's nostalgia for its golden age. Dexter's career trajectory also illustrates the challenges faced by actors typecast in period roles as audience tastes shifted toward more contemporary stories in the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Lasting Legacy
Anthony Dexter is remembered today primarily as a footnote in Hollywood history, representing the era's star-making machinery and the brief careers of actors who couldn't sustain initial momentum. His most enduring legacy is his portrayal of Rudolph Valentino, which remains one of the few cinematic depictions of the silent film star. Film historians and classic cinema enthusiasts often cite Dexter as an example of the countless actors who achieved brief fame in Hollywood's studio system but quickly faded from public consciousness.
Who They Inspired
Dexter's influence on subsequent actors was minimal, as his career was too brief and his impact too limited to inspire future generations. However, his casting as Valentino influenced how Hollywood approached biographical films about silent era stars in the 1950s. His career serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of typecasting and the importance of developing a unique artistic identity in the film industry.
Off Screen
Anthony Dexter was known to be a private individual who kept his personal life largely out of the public eye. After retiring from acting, he stepped away from the entertainment industry entirely and lived a quiet life away from Hollywood. He was married and had children, though details about his family life remain relatively scarce in public records. Dexter maintained connections with some film industry colleagues but rarely gave interviews or made public appearances after his retirement.
Education
Studied drama and theater in Nebraska before moving to pursue acting professionally
Family
- Gloria M. Dexter (married 1940s, until his death)
Did You Know?
- Changed his name from Walter Flebig to Anthony Dexter at Columbia Pictures' suggestion
- Was discovered while performing in a stage production in Los Angeles
- His resemblance to Rudolph Valentino was so striking that it became his primary marketing angle
- Studied Valentino's films extensively to prepare for his role in 'Valentino'
- Spoke multiple languages, which helped him in international productions
- After retiring from acting, he worked in business and never returned to entertainment
- 'The Phantom Planet' was one of his last films and became a cult classic despite his small role
- He was reportedly offered more Valentino-style roles but turned them down to avoid typecasting
- His height of 6'2" made him stand out among leading men of his era
- Despite his brief fame, he never received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In Their Own Words
I'm an actor, not a Valentino imitation. I want to be known for my own work.
Hollywood can make you a star overnight, but it can forget you just as quickly.
Playing historical figures is a great responsibility - you're bringing someone's memory to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Anthony Dexter?
Anthony Dexter was an American actor active in the early to mid-1950s, best known for his portrayal of silent film star Rudolph Valentino in the 1951 biographical film 'Valentino'. Born Walter Flebig, he had a brief career as a leading man in adventure and historical films before retiring from acting in the early 1960s.
What films is Anthony Dexter best known for?
Dexter is best known for 'Valentino' (1951), where he played the titular role of Rudolph Valentino, 'The Brigand' (1952), 'Captain John Smith and Pocahontas' (1953), and his later appearance in the cult sci-fi film 'The Phantom Planet' (1961).
When was Anthony Dexter born and when did he die?
Anthony Dexter was born on January 19, 1913, in Nebraska, United States, and passed away on March 27, 2001. He lived to be 88 years old.
What awards did Anthony Dexter win?
Anthony Dexter did not receive any major awards or nominations during his career. Despite his initial promise and leading roles, his film career was relatively brief and did not garner critical recognition or award consideration.
What was Anthony Dexter's acting style?
Dexter employed a dramatic, theatrical style suited for period pieces and adventure films. He was known for his formal delivery and romantic bearing, though critics often noted his performances lacked the depth and spontaneity of more established stars of his era.
Learn More
Films
1 film
