Carl Benton Reid was a highly accomplished drama graduate from Carnegie Tech, with a rich stage experience that spanned several years, including performances at the prestigious Cleveland Playhouse in the 1920s, where he met his future wife, the talented stage actress Hazel Harrison.
As he transitioned to the New York stage, Reid became a renowned actor, boasting an impressive array of credits, including notable roles in iconic plays such as "Life with Father" (in the title role),Anton Chekhov's "The Cherry Orchard" (with Eva Le Gallienne),and Eugene O'Neill's Theatre Guild Production of "The Iceman Cometh".
In his iconic role as Harry Slade in "Iceman", the esteemed critic Brooks Atkinson praised Reid's "vigorous incisiveness" and "substantial" contribution to the performance, noting his ability to bring depth and complexity to the character.
Reid's stern demeanor and authoritative presence made him a natural fit for playing tough characters, particularly heavy fathers, which he portrayed with ease and conviction, as seen in "Strange Bedfellows" (1947).
In 1941, Reid made the transition to Hollywood, recreating his stage role of Oscar Hubbard in the outstanding film adaptation of Lillian Hellman's play "The Little Foxes", directed by the acclaimed William Wyler. With his signature scowl and icy delivery, Reid brought to life one of two avaricious brothers, alongside Charles Dingle, as part of the venomous Giddens family, led by the formidable Regina Giddens, played by Bette Davis.
Though none of his subsequent film roles matched the success of "The Little Foxes", Reid found new life on the small screen, often portraying senior military brass, older statesmen, or even murder victims, showcasing his versatility and range as an actor.
