Kenneth MacDonald, born Kenneth Dollins on September 8, 1901, in Portland, Indiana, began his acting career on stage in the 1920s and transitioned to Hollywood in the early 1930s.
Despite initial struggles to find consistent work, he wrote a pamphlet called "The Case of Kenneth MacDonald" and distributed it to producers, which ultimately led to a surge in job offers and a regular spot in Columbia's Charles Starrett series of "Durango Kid" westerns.
However, he is most famously remembered for his roles as a foil to various comedy teams in Columbia's two-reelers, particularly The Three Stooges, where his suave demeanor and booming voice made him a natural fit for con men, crooked lawyers, and criminal gang leaders.
He also showcased his physical comedy skills, taking pokes in the eyes, pies in the face, and iron bars to the head with ease.
After leaving the Columbia shorts department in 1955, MacDonald semi-retired from acting, but continued to make appearances on television.
From 1951-1953, he had a recurring role as a sheriff on the series The Range Rider, and from 1957-1966, he played Judge Carter on Perry Mason.
Additionally, he was a frequent guest star on Colt.45, playing Col. Parker, and made appearances on other TV shows.
Sadly, Kenneth MacDonald passed away at the age of 70 on May 5, 1972, at the Motion Picture Country Home in Woodland Hills, California, due to a combination of brain and lung cancer.
