Murray Hamilton was a talented character actor whose face was instantly recognizable to many movie buffs, although his name may not have been as well-known. He was a versatile and prolific performer who excelled at playing a wide range of roles, from priests and gangsters to soldiers, politicians, and even aliens.
Born and educated in Washington, North Carolina, Hamilton initially studied graphic design but soon discovered his true passion for acting. With just $50 in his pocket, he made his way to Los Angeles, where he began his career as a messenger boy at Warner Brothers before working his way up to become an extra in films.
Hamilton's breakthrough came when he appeared in the long-running play "Mister Roberts" alongside Henry Fonda, playing the role of a shore patrol officer and later taking over as Ensign Pulver. He went on to make a name for himself on Broadway, earning a Tony Award nomination for his performance in "Absence of a Cello" and playing memorable roles in "Critic's Choice" and "Stockade".
Hamilton's expressive face and gravelly voice made him a natural for film and television, where he appeared in over 100 shows. He played a wide range of characters, from surly gangsters and authority figures to comedic roles and even a sinister alien in "The Invaders".
Hamilton was a private person who preferred to spend his life in his native North Carolina and Manhattan, rather than being part of the Hollywood set. He was close friends with actors George C. Scott, Jason Robards, and Walter Matthau, who helped him out when he was struggling with the effects of cancer and finding film roles harder to come by.
Murray Hamilton died in September 1986 at the age of 63, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most versatile and prolific character actors of his generation.
