A renowned character actor of the 1930s, known for his versatility in portraying authoritative figures such as lawyers, judges, sheriffs, mayors, and storekeepers. He possessed a remarkable ability to bring depth and nuance to his performances, often excelling in roles that required him to convey a sense of choleric or obtuse demeanor.
Throughout his illustrious career, Bates had a strong presence on the Broadway stage, with a span of performances that lasted from 1925 to 1935. His early foray into the world of cinema began with Essanay in 1917, marking the start of a long and distinguished career in film.
One of his most memorable performances was in the 1939 film "The Great Man Votes", where he played a corrupt and incompetent mayor with great aplomb. However, it was his role as the bewildered judge in the 1940 film "My Favorite Wife" that is often regarded as his crowning achievement. Bosley Crowther, a prominent film critic, praised this performance as a "masterpiece of comic creation".
Bates also stood out in the 1940 film "Men Against the Sky", despite the overall forgettable nature of the film. Tragically, his life was cut short when he passed away shortly after due to a heart attack.
Throughout his career, Bates was an active member of the Lambs Club in New York, a prestigious theatrical organization that has been a hub for American theatrical talent for many years.
