Howard St. John, a veteran theater performer born in Chicago, made his Broadway debut in 1925 with the play "Nocturne". He went on to excel in a wide range of roles throughout the 1930s, including "Princess Charming" (1930),"Keeper of the Keys" (1932),and "Triumph" (1935).
As his popularity grew, so did his repertoire, with notable hits like "Janie" (1942),"The Late George Apley" (1946),and "Two Blind Mice" (1949). He transitioned to film in the late 1940s, bringing his signature gruffness to roles as business tycoons and high-ranking military brass.
Some of his most memorable film roles include "Born Yesterday" (1950) and "One, Two, Three" (1961). He also had a successful run on stage, playing General Bullmoose in the musical "Li'l Abner" in 1956 and reprising the role in the 1959 film adaptation.
In addition to his film and stage work, St. John made numerous television appearances, including the short-lived cop drama "The Investigator" (1958) and the sitcom "Hank" (1965). He also appeared as a foil on the "Honeymooners" musical sketches on "The Jackie Gleason Show" (1966).
St. John passed away in 1974 at the age of 68 due to a heart attack in New York City, leaving behind his wife Lois.
