PERCY HELTON?

PERCY HELTON (1894-1971) was born into a theatrical family and early on appeared in his father's Vaudeville act; later he was cast in several plays by George M. Cohan. He gained his trademark raspy voice when his character yelled throughout a play, and by the time the run ended, his voice was ruined. He turned it to his advantage however, appearing in many character roles in film and television, often uncredited.



Haven't you seen Red, Hot and Blue (1949)? Percy is the stage manager in this enjoyable Betty Hutton film. Victor Mature is along for the ride.


Watch this and then see these other four films.


Miracle On 34th Street (1947) [aka The Big Heart (UK)] Percy was uncredited but memorable as the drunken "Santa Claus". This performance led to many other roles.
Hazard (1948) Percy plays 'Beady Roberts', supporting stars Macdonald Carey and Paulette Goddard.
Call Me Madam (1953) Percy plays a senator in this Ethel Merman vehicle. One of Irving Berlin's lesser musicals, but it's still good fun with a great cast.
Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte (1964) [aka What Ever Happened to Cousin Charlotte] Percy is a funeral director in this film. There were certainly a lot of calls for his services in this one.


*Contributed by: "Eric Jamborsky" Date: Wed, Aug 9 2006 / 18:12:06 PST