Today, we’re going to dive into the life and times of Broderick Crawford, an actor who left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Although his heyday was a few decades back, Crawford’s work continues to be revered by film buffs and critics alike. Now, we’ll explore his early life, and career highlights, and discuss his net worth. So sit back, relax, and let’s discover more about this iconic actor.
Net Worth: $10 Million
Salary: –
Date of Birth: Dec 9, 1911 – Apr 26, 1986
Place of Birth: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Gender: Male
Profession: Actor
Broderick Crawford Early Life
Broderick Crawford was born on December 9, 1911, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Named after his father, William Broderick Crawford, a vaudeville actor and stage manager, young Broderick was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps. His mother, Helen Broderick, was also an accomplished actress in her own right. With showbiz running through his veins, it’s no wonder that Crawford was drawn to the limelight.
Crawford’s family moved to New York City when he was a child, and he grew up surrounded by the glitz and glamor of the theater world. He attended high school in the city and later went on to study drama at the prestigious Harvard University. However, his academic journey was cut short when his father passed away, forcing him to return home and support his family.
Despite this setback, Crawford was determined to make it in the world of entertainment. He began his acting career in the early 1930s, starting with small roles on Broadway. His rugged good looks and powerful stage presence soon caught the attention of Hollywood producers, and it wasn’t long before he was offered roles in films.
Broderick Crawford Personal Life
While Broderick Crawford enjoyed a successful career, his personal life was often tumultuous. He married three times, with his first marriage to actress Kay Griffith ending in divorce in 1948. His second marriage, to Joan Tabor, also ended in divorce after six years. Crawford’s third and final marriage was to Mary Alice Moore in 1962, and the couple remained together until his death in 1986.
Crawford was known to be a heavy drinker, which led to several health issues, including a near-fatal stroke in 1961. Despite this, he continued to work and remained passionate about his craft. He was also a loving father to his two children, Kelly and Kim, from his first marriage.
Broderick Crawford Career
As previously mentioned, Broderick Crawford’s career took off with his iconic role in “All the King’s Men” (1949). This performance established him as a leading man in Hollywood, and he continued to build an impressive filmography throughout the 1950s and beyond.
After his success on the television series “Highway Patrol,” Crawford remained a popular choice for TV roles. He starred in several other series, including “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” (1964), “The Interns” (1970-1971), and “King” (1978). Additionally, he made guest appearances on popular shows like “The Twilight Zone,” “Gunsmoke,” and “The Streets of San Francisco.”
Crawford’s film career also continued to thrive. He appeared in numerous movies, including “Il Bidone” (1955), directed by the legendary Federico Fellini, and “The Fastest Guitar Alive” (1967), alongside musician Roy Orbison. Crawford’s final film role was in “The Private Files of J. Edgar Hoover” (1977), where he portrayed the infamous FBI director.
Despite health issues and personal struggles, Broderick Crawford remained active in the industry until his death on April 26, 1986, at the age of 74. His dedication to his craft and his ability to captivate audiences with his powerful performances have ensured his lasting legacy as one of Hollywood’s greats.
Broderick Crawford Net Worth
Before we dive into the details of Broderick Crawford’s net worth, let’s take a brief look at his illustrious career. Crawford made his film debut in 1937 with a small part in the movie “Woman Chases Man.” Over the next few years, he appeared in numerous films, often playing tough guys and gangster roles. His big break came in 1949 when he was cast as Willie Stark, a corrupt politician in the film “All the King’s Men.” This role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, catapulting him to fame and fortune.
Throughout the 1950s, Crawford continued to act in successful films, including “Born Yesterday” (1950) and “Scandal Sheet” (1952). However, it was his role in the popular television series “Highway Patrol” (1955-1959) that would make him a household name. As Chief Dan Mathews, Crawford’s gravelly voice and tough demeanor made the show a huge hit.
With a successful acting career spanning over four decades, it’s no surprise that Broderick Crawford amassed a considerable fortune. At the time of his death in 1986, his net worth was estimated to be around $10 million (adjusted for inflation). This wealth was accumulated through his film and television work, as well as various investments and endorsement deals.
It’s essential to note that Crawford’s life wasn’t all about fame and fortune. He was known for his charitable contributions and philanthropy, often donating to causes close to his heart. He was particularly involved with children’s hospitals and organizations that supported struggling actors and artists.
