Ralph Dayton Sanford (May 21, 1899 – June 20, 1963) was an American film actor. He appeared in more than 180 films and in at least 200 episodes on television between 1930 and 1960, mostly bit parts or supporting roles. Sanford frequently appeared in Westerns and was often portrayed "tough guys". Sanford also served in the infantry during World War I.[1]

Ralph Sanford
Sanford in Submarine Alert (1943)
Born
Ralph Dayton Sanford

(1899-05-21)May 21, 1899
DiedJune 20, 1963(1963-06-20) (aged 64)
OccupationActor
Years active1930–1960

Career

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Sanford's began his professional career in 1924 as the dancing partner of Ray Bolger.[2] He moved to California in 1928 and gained his first movie credit in 1933. He began appearing on television in 1951, playing various roles. He is probably best-remembered on The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp, appearing in 21 episodes, including 16 as Mayor Jim Kelly during the 1958-1959 season.

On Broadway, Sanford performed in Between Two Worlds (1934), Saluta (1934), They Shall Not Die (1934), Twenty-five Dollars an Hour (1933), Ballyhoo of 1932 (1932), Hey Nonny Nonny! (1932), Child of Manhattan (1932), The Constant Sinner (1931), The Great Man (1931), Mendel, Inc. (1929), and Half a Widow (1927).[3]

Death

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Sanford died in Los Angeles, California on June 20, 1963. Upon death, his body was transported to his birthplace of Springfield Massachusetts for burial.[2]

Selected filmography

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References

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  1. ^ Sprinkle, Jim (October 27, 1942). "Veteran Actor Ralph Sanford Likes to Hunt And Sight Of Geese Here Sets Him Wishing". Valley Morning Star. Texas, Harlingen. p. 2. Retrieved October 21, 2020 – via Newspapers.com.
  2. ^ a b "Rites for Actor Ralph Sanford Slated Today". Los Angeles Times. No. 34. June 23, 1963. Retrieved October 22, 2018.
  3. ^ "Ralph Sanford". Internet Broadway Database. The Broadway League. Archived from the original on October 21, 2020. Retrieved October 21, 2020.
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