Andy Clyde

Biography

Andrew Allan Clyde, born on March 25, 1892, in Scotland, was a prominent American actor whose career spanned nearly half a century. He made his film debut in 1921 with the silent movie "On a Summer Day," entering the industry as a comedic talent under the guidance of Mack Sennett. Clyde was the fifth of six siblings in a family immersed in the performing arts, with both his brother David and sister Jean also pursuing acting careers.

Clyde is perhaps best recognized for his portrayal of California Carlson in the popular Hopalong Cassidy film series. Between 1934 and 1956, he starred in 79 comedic shorts for Columbia Pictures, showcasing his versatile comedic style. His television credits include notable roles as Cully Wilson in CBS's "Lassie" and George MacMichael in ABC's "The Real McCoys."

On September 23, 1932, Clyde wed Elsie Maud Tarron, a former Sennett Bathing Beauty, in San Bernardino County, California. He faced personal tragedy when his only son, John Allan Clyde, passed away from meningitis at the tender age of nine. A close friend of fellow actor Ben Turpin, Clyde served as a witness at his second wedding and was a pallbearer at his funeral.

Clyde became a naturalized U.S. citizen on September 24, 1943, and continued his acting career on television until his passing due to natural causes on May 18, 1967. He is interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.