Ted Wells, a notable figure in the western film genre, initially gained recognition as a second-echelon hero at Universal during the silent era of the 1920s. His early work consisted of low-budget westerns produced by William M. Pizor and Robert J. Horner, also known as "Poverty Row" producers.
As Wells worked during the silent period, he utilized his own name as well as the pseudonym "Pawnee Bill, Jr." When sound technology became prevalent, Wells found himself relegated to minor roles, including bit parts and supporting roles, as well as doubling and stunt work.
Ted Wells re-established his connection with Horner in the mid-1930s, leading to a collaboration that resulted in his performance as the hero in a pair of low-budget westerns, The Phantom Cowboy (1935) and the lost film Defying the Law (1935),both produced by Aywon Pictures.
Despite being announced to star in eight films for Horner, only two of these productions ultimately came to fruition. Wells subsequently returned to his work in westerns and serials, frequently doubling for William Boyd in the Hopalong Cassidy films from the late 1930s through 1944.
