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Bob Steele

πŸ“… 1907–1988 (Died at age 81)

Full Name: Robert Adrian Bradbury

Stage Name: Bob Steele

Nickname: β€”

Born: January 23, 1907 – Portland, Oregon, USA

Died: December 21, 1988 – Burbank, California, USA

IMDb Profile: Bob Steele on IMDb β†—

🎬 Movies featuring Bob Steele:

πŸ“˜ Biography

Bob Steele, born Robert Adrian Bradbury, was a prolific American film actor best known for his work in Westerns during the 1930s and 1940s. The son of filmmaker Robert N. Bradbury, Steele was introduced to the film industry at a young age and began acting in silent films before making a successful transition to sound.

He starred in dozens of B-Westerns, quickly becoming a popular cowboy hero known for his tough persona, athleticism, and rugged charm. Throughout the 1930s, Steele was one of the genre’s most recognizable figures, working with studios like Monogram Pictures and Republic Pictures.

Later in his career, Steele transitioned into character roles in major films such as Of Mice and Men (1939), where he played the menacing Curley. He also had recurring roles in television series, including Gunsmoke, where he played Trooper Duffy. His long career spanned more than five decades and left a lasting legacy in the Western genre.

πŸ“½οΈ Full Filmography

Bob Steele starred in over 100 films, particularly B-Westerns. Some highlights include:

  • Of Mice and Men (1939) – Played the aggressive and jealous Curley in the acclaimed adaptation.
  • Trail of Terror (1935) – A classic example of his early cowboy work.
  • Arizona Gunfighter (1937) – One of his most famous Western roles.
  • Big Calibre (1935) – A cult-favorite Western known for its strange villain.
  • Gunsmoke (1950s–60s, TV) – Recurring role as Trooper Duffy in the long-running Western series.

Note: For a complete list of credits, visit his IMDb filmography.