William Bendix

William Bendix
Bendix in 1960
Born	(1906-01-14)January 14, 1906 New York City, U.S
Died	December 14, 1964(1964-12-14) (aged 58) Los Angeles, California, U.S
Resting place	San Fernando Mission Cemetery, Mission Hills, Los Angeles
Occupation(s)	Film, radio, television actor
Years active	1936–1964
Political party	Republican
Spouse	Theresa Stefanotti ​ ​ (m. 1927⁠–⁠1964)​
Children	2

William Bendix (January 14, 1906 – December 14, 1964) was an American film, radio, and television actor, known for his portrayals of rough, blue-collar characters. He gained significant recognition for his role in Wake Island, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Bendix is also remembered for playing Chester A. Riley, the earnest and clumsy aircraft plant worker, in both the radio and television versions of The Life of Riley. Additionally, he portrayed baseball legend Babe Ruth in The Babe Ruth Story. Bendix frequently co-starred with Alan Ladd, appearing in ten films together; both actors died in 1964.