Born in 1901, he was an American film actor known for his tough-guy roles in the 1930s and 1940s. He gained fame with his Oscar-nominated performance in "Beau Geste" (1939) and starred in "The Great McGinty" (1940), showcasing his versatility. Often cast as military or authoritative figures, he appeared in numerous films noir and Westerns. Later, he starred in British sci-fi classics like "The Quatermass Xperiment" (1955). He passed away in 1972, leaving a legacy of over 100 films.