Introduction
George Montgomery was an American actor, director, and artist who was active in the entertainment industry from the 1930s to the 1980s. He was known for his roles in westerns and war films and was also a skilled sculptor. In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of George Montgomery, his notable works, and his contributions to the film industry and art world.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
George Montgomery was born on August 29, 1916, in Brady, Montana. His birth name was George Montgomery Letz, and he was the youngest of fifteen children. He grew up on a ranch and attended school in nearby Hardin. After completing high school, he attended the University of Montana, where he studied architecture and interior design.
Early Acting Career
Montgomery’s acting career began in the 1930s when he moved to California and started working as a stuntman and extra in films. He got his first speaking role in the 1939 film “The Cisco Kid and the Lady.” He then went on to appear in several westerns and war films, including “Ride the Pink Horse” (1947), “The Battle of the Bulge” (1965), and “Hell to Eternity” (1960).
Notable Works
Westerns
Montgomery was best known for his roles in westerns. He appeared in over thirty western films, including “Belle Starr” (1941), “Canyon Passage” (1946), and “The Lone Ranger and the Lost City of Gold” (1958). He also starred in the TV series “Cimarron City” (1958-1959) and “The Iron Horse” (1966-1968).
Sculptures
In addition to his acting career, Montgomery was also a skilled sculptor. He began sculpting in the 1950s and created over 200 sculptures throughout his life. His sculptures were often inspired by western themes and were exhibited in galleries and museums across the country. Some of his notable works include “The Scout” and “The Indian Hunter.”
Personal Life
Family
Montgomery was married four times and had six children. His first wife was singer and actress Dinah Shore, whom he married in 1943. They had two children together before divorcing in 1962. He later married actress and model Elizabeth Allen in 1963, and they had one child before divorcing in 1970. He then married actress Tippy Walker in 1971, but they divorced in 1974. His fourth and final marriage was to actress and model Dinah Englund in 1981.
Religion
Montgomery was raised in a Catholic family but later converted to Judaism after marrying Dinah Shore. He remained a devout Jew throughout his life and was involved in several Jewish organizations.
Conclusion
George Montgomery was a talented actor, director, and artist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and art world. His notable works in westerns and war films, as well as his sculptures, continue to be celebrated and admired by fans and art enthusiasts. Despite facing personal struggles and setbacks, Montgomery remained dedicated to his craft and left behind a lasting legacy.
FAQ
Who is George Montgomery?
George Montgomery was an American actor, director, producer, painter, and sculptor. He appeared in over 80 films, mostly Westerns, during the 1940s and 1950s.
What kind of movies did George Montgomery star in?
George Montgomery was best known for his roles in Westerns. He appeared in films such as “The Cisco Kid and the Lady,” “Riders of the Purple Sage,” and “Canyon River.” However, he also starred in other genres, including war films and crime dramas.
What was George Montgomery’s career like?
George Montgomery had a successful career in Hollywood, appearing in over 80 films and directing and producing several others. He was also an accomplished painter and sculptor, with his works being displayed in galleries across the United States.
What kind of sculptures did George Montgomery create?
George Montgomery was known for creating bronze sculptures of Western and Native American themes. Some of his most famous works include “The Last Roundup” and “The Bronco Buster.” He also created sculptures of animals and historical figures.
Where can I see George Montgomery’s sculptures?
George Montgomery’s sculptures can be found in galleries and museums across the United States, including the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles and the Booth Western Art Museum in Georgia. Some of his sculptures are also available for purchase through art dealers and auction houses.
