Strother Martin

Posted in Celeb, General, articles, news, people, sports on 07. Nov, 2009

Strother Martin, an American actor was born on March 26, 1919 in Indiana and died on August 1, 1980 in California at an age of 61. His career span was spread from 1950 to 1980. Martin appeared in numerous television programs and films. Martin is best known for his role in Cool Hand Luke in 1967 as prison captain.

In his childhood Martin excelled at diving and swimming and was popular with his nickname as “T Bone Martin” being an expert in diving. During the World War-II, Martin served in the U.S. Navy as swimming instructor. He was the diving team’s member at University of Michigan.

After World War II, he moved to ‘Los Angeles’ where he got an opportunity of swimming ‘instructor and extra’ in the water scenes of films. Martin started to earn small roles in pictures thus starting his career in the movies. Initially some time period Martin appeared in movies and television programs in small roles. In 1950s, Martin appeared in programs like ‘Frontier’ on NBC and ‘Gray Ghost’ an American ‘civil war’ drama. Martin also guest starred in some programs including Boots and Saddles and The Law & Mr. Jones. He also appeared in a comedy “The Rounders” for two times. During 1960s Martin became an established figure in the showbiz industry and was among the stars of the industry.

The overall get up and voice of Martin made him more suitable for villainous roles in movies. He appeared in many popular movies during 1960s and 70s like The Man Who Shot Liberty Valence and The Horse Soldier. He also appeared in various television shows.

He was married to Helen in 1967 and their relationship continues until Martin’s death in 1980. Martin died in 1980 due to heart failure.