A veteran character actor with a distinctive voice, known for his numerous stage and screen roles, including appearances in popular TV shows and films.
Robert Symonds was a talented American actor, best known for his extensive work in theater, film, and television. With a career spanning over four decades, he left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, gracing audiences with his captivating performances in a wide range of genres.
Symonds' impressive career was marked by numerous notable roles on stage and screen. He was an associate director of the Repertory Theater of Lincoln Center from 1965 to 1972, during which he appeared in several productions, including The Caucasian Chalk Circle, Cyrano de Bergerac, The Miser, Twelfth Night, and A Streetcar Named Desire.
In film, Symonds appeared in iconic movies such as The Exorcist (1973), Linda Lovelace for President (1975), Gray Lady Down (1978), ...And Justice for All (1979), The Ice Pirates (1984), Crimewave (1985), Rumpelstiltskin (1987), Mandroid (1993), Primary Colors (1998), Inferno (1999), and Catch Me If You Can (2002).
On television, Symonds had a successful run, playing Benjamin Franklin in the 1976 PBS miniseries The Adams Chronicles and the recurring role of Dr. Jonas Edwards on Dynasty from 1982 to 1987. He also made guest appearances on popular shows such as The Rockford Files, M*A*S*H, Benson, Cheers, Quincy, M.E., Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, ER, Alias, and Cold Case.
Symonds was born on December 1, 1926, in Bristow, Oklahoma, to Nellie (née Barry) and Walter Stout Symonds. He married Elizabeth Janel Kaderli in 1952 and had three children, Victoria, Barry, and Rebecca. The couple divorced in 1969, and Symonds later married actress Priscilla Pointer in 1980, becoming the stepfather of actress Amy Irving and her siblings, David and Katie.
Symonds passed away on August 23, 2007, at the age of 80, due to complications from prostate cancer.
Throughout his remarkable career, Robert Symonds demonstrated his versatility and talent, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to inspire and entertain audiences. His dedication to his craft and his numerous contributions to the world of theater, film, and television have cemented his place as a true legend in the entertainment industry.
Born in 1900
Academy Award-winning star of Hollywood's Golden Age, known for iconic on-screen partnership with Katharine Hepburn and memorable roles in classics like "Inherit the Wind" and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner".
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A legendary actress who won four Academy Awards and starred in iconic films like "The Philadelphia Story" and "On Golden Pond", known for her fierce independence and spirited on-screen presence.
Born in 1899
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Debonair leading man of Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in iconic romantic comedies and dramas, known for suave charm and witty banter.
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Iconic leading man of Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in classics like "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Rear Window", bringing everyman charm to cinematic legends.
Born in 1905
Iconic actor of Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in classics like "The Grapes of Wrath" and "On Golden Pond", earning him two Oscars and a lifetime of critical acclaim.
Born in 1908
A legendary actress who dominated Hollywood's Golden Age with her powerful performances and iconic roles in films like "All About Eve" and "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?"