Elisha Cook Jr.: The Life and Career of Hollywood's Ultimate Character Actor

Elisha Cook Jr. had one of the most fascinating careers in Hollywood. From film noir classics to horror movies, Westerns, television, and cult cinema, Cook became one of the most recognizable character actors of the 20th century. In this episode we take a look at the life and career of Elisha Cook Jr., from his early days in Hollywood to some of his most memorable performances. We'll revisit his unforgettable role as Wilmer Cook in The Maltese Falcon, his appearances in films such as The Big Sleep, The Killing, Rosemary's Baby, and House on Haunted Hill, and his extensive television career. Cook often played nervous, frightened, unlucky, or dangerous characters, but there was much more to his career than his trademark screen persona. His performances helped make him one of classic Hollywood's great character actors. If you love classic movies, film noir, vintage horror, Westerns, and the fascinating actors who populated Hollywood's golden age, this is one career you won't want to miss.