Written by: Carlos Hernandez

Wendell Corey: The Actor, Philanthropist, and Pillar of Hollywood

Wendell Corey, born on March 20, 1914, was an American stage, film, and television actor, best known for his versatility in playing a wide range of roles, from gangsters to romantic leads. He was a prominent figure in Hollywood, serving as the President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and a board member of the Screen Actors Guild.

Early Life and Career

Corey was born in Dracut, Massachusetts, to Milton Rothwell Corey, a Congregationalist clergyman and an actor, and Julia Etta McKenney. His ancestors included U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. After graduating from high school in Springfield, Massachusetts, Corey sold washing machines and refrigerators at a department store, but his true passion lay in acting.

Corey's entry into the world of acting was quite by chance. He stopped by to see a friend who was acting at the Springfield Repertory Theater, and the group needed an actor to play the role of a Swedish janitor in Street Scene. Corey took the role and stayed with the theater group for a year, working in the department store during the day and acting at night. He eventually went into acting full-time, working with various theater groups, including the Federal Theatre Project.

Rise to Fame and Notable Roles

Corey's breakthrough role came in 1945, when he played a cynical newspaperman in Elmer Rice's comedy Dream Girl. His performance caught the attention of producer Hal Wallis, who persuaded him to sign a contract with Paramount and pursue a motion picture career in Hollywood.

Corey made his feature film debut in 1947, playing a gangster in Wallis's Desert Fury, starring Burt Lancaster, John Hodiak, Lizabeth Scott, and Mary Astor. Throughout his career, he appeared in over 50 films, including The File on Thelma Jordon (1950), The Furies (1950), and Rear Window (1954), opposite James Stewart and Grace Kelly.

Philanthropy and Public Service

In addition to his acting career, Corey was a dedicated philanthropist and public servant. He served on the Santa Monica City Council and was an active member of the Screen Actors Guild, fighting for actors' rights and fair compensation.

As President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Corey worked tirelessly to promote the arts and recognize excellence in filmmaking. He was also a vocal advocate for social causes, including civil rights and education.

Legacy and Impact

Wendell Corey's legacy extends far beyond his impressive filmography. He was a true Hollywood legend, respected by his peers and admired by audiences worldwide. His commitment to philanthropy and public service has inspired generations of actors and filmmakers.

Today, Corey's films continue to entertain and inspire audiences, a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to his craft.

Personal Life and Milestones

Corey was married to Alice Wiley from 1939 until his death in 1968. He passed away on November 8, 1968, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a lifetime of service to his community.

• Corey's ancestors included U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams.
• He was a member of the Federal Theatre Project, a New Deal program established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
• Corey served as a board member of the Screen Actors Guild and fought for actors' rights and fair compensation.

Wendell Corey's remarkable career and philanthropic efforts have cemented his place as a true Hollywood icon, inspiring generations of actors, filmmakers, and audiences alike.