Born in 1890 on a farm in Michigan, Irish-American character actor Harry Shannon was destined for a career in westerns. He began his journey by traveling with repertory and stock companies, honing his musical talents in tent shows, burlesque houses, and Broadway productions such as "Oh, Kay!" (1926),"Hold Everything" (1928),"Simple Simon" (1931),and "Pardon My English" (1933).
As a member of the Hollywood Theater Guild, Shannon made his film debut in the early days of sound, starring alongside notable comedians like Bert Lahr, Shemp Howard, and Leon Errol in comedy film shorts.
In the 1940s, Shannon established himself in feature-length movies, often playing minor but memorable roles as sheriffs, bucolic dads, and friendly Irish cops or bartenders. His most notable roles include Kane's drunken father in the classic Citizen Kane (1941),and as the grandfather in the musical Gypsy (1962).
Throughout his career, Shannon appeared in numerous films, including The Fighting Sullivans (1944),The Jolson Story (1946),High Noon (1952),Touch of Evil (1958),and The Buccaneer (1958).
In the 1950s, Shannon also made appearances in popular TV westerns such as Cheyenne (1955),Have Gun - Will Travel (1957),Rawhide (1959),and Gunsmoke (1955),showcasing his rugged demeanor.
Harry Shannon passed away in 1964 at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy as a talented and versatile character actor.
