John Dehner was a quintessential Hollywood character actor, immediately recognizable for his stentorian baritone voice and striking features. Born John Forkum on Staten Island, New York, he was the son of an artist whose global travels shaped Dehner’s early life and multilingual abilities. His journey, initially aimed towards the arts, took an unexpected turn into the world of entertainment, where he left an indelible mark in radio, film, and television.
From Disney Animator to Radio Star
Dehner’s diverse upbringing included schooling in France and Norway, granting him fluency in four languages. Returning to the United States, he pursued art, graduating from high school in New York and studying for an art diploma at the University of California. However, the allure of acting proved too strong to resist, leading him to California. Initially finding work as a pianist and bandleader, Dehner’s artistic talents soon led him to Walt Disney Studios. For $18 a week, he became an assistant animator, contributing to iconic sequences in classics like Fantasia (1940) and Bambi (1942), alongside working on Donald Duck and Pluto cartoons. His connection with Disney continued later in his career, as he narrated for the studio and even appeared in an episode of the Zorro TV series.
Transition to Radio and Reluctant Western Hero
After his time at Disney and a stint as a public relations officer in the army during World War II, Dehner’s resonant voice found its home in radio. He became a radio announcer and news editor for stations KMBC and KFWB in California. This marked the beginning of an illustrious radio career, where Dehner accumulated impressive credits. Notably, he starred as Paladin in “Have Gun – Will Travel,” a role that solidified his presence in the popular action programs of the era, including “Gunsmoke” and “Fort Laramie.” Interestingly, despite his radio success in westerns, Dehner famously declined multiple offers to portray Marshall Matt Dillon on television, wary of being typecast solely in the genre.
Hollywood’s Go-To Villain and Authority Figure
Dehner transitioned to film in the mid-1940s, starting with minor roles. His talent and commanding presence quickly propelled him into the realm of memorable antagonists. He became one of Hollywood’s most dependable villains, adept at portraying suave gamblers, corrupt bankers, con artists, and menacing gunslingers. Conversely, his authoritative demeanor also made him a perfect fit for roles requiring sternness and command, such as fathers, military officers, and law enforcement figures. In Einer muß dran glauben (1958), released in the US as The Left Handed Gun, Dehner received second billing, playing Pat Garrett opposite Paul Newman’s Billy the Kid, showcasing his ability to hold his own against leading men.
Television Guest Star Extraordinaire
On the burgeoning medium of television, John Dehner became a ubiquitous and impactful guest star. His film noir features and distinctive voice graced countless classic TV shows across genres. His appearances spanned a wide range of popular series, including Yancy Derringer (1958), Wells Fargo (1957), The Roaring 20s (1960), Maverick (1957), Bronco (1958), 77 Sunset Strip (1958), Wagon Train (1959), and even a recurring role as Doris Day’s editor, Cy Bennett, in The Doris Day Show (1968) during its fourth and fifth seasons. Dehner also showcased his versatility, including a memorable comedic performance in “Mr. Garrity and the Graves,” an episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1959), highlighting his dry wit and comedic timing.
A Lasting Legacy
John Dehner’s prolific career cemented his status as one of Hollywood’s most hardworking and versatile character actors. He passed away in Santa Barbara, California, on February 4th at the age of 76, leaving behind a rich legacy of performances across radio, film, and television. His distinctive voice and memorable portrayals continue to be celebrated by fans of classic Hollywood entertainment.
