A multifaceted individual, Joseph Price, entered the Hollywood scene in 1932, characterized by his striking features, including his dark complexion, captivating gaze, and crocodile-like smile. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, he became a ubiquitous presence in film, working consistently for 52 weeks in 1939 alone, earning a substantial $2700. Prior to his Hollywood career, Price served in the military during World War I and subsequently acted on stage in the Midwest.
Although he did not achieve significant recognition on Broadway, aside from a minor role in a failed 1929 play, he did explore his creative side as a playwright. As the 1930s unfolded, Price transitioned to film, amassing a vast array of credits as nervous or cowardly secondary henchmen, Mexican bandits, maniacal killers, gamblers, and even the occasional lawman in westerns.
He was particularly active for Republic and Monogram, frequently supporting popular cowboy heroes such as Johnny Mack Brown, William Boyd, Tex Ritter, Bob Steele, and Charles Starrett. Price also made occasional appearances in crime and science fiction serials. His most prominent billing, as 'the Phantom Ruler,' came in Republic's The Invisible Monster (1950).
Price was renowned for his distinctive, soft-spoken delivery, which made him an attractive asset to Lippert Productions. From 1948 to 1955, he worked as a dialogue coach and director, utilizing his extensive experience to guide other actors and shape the narrative of various films.
