George Raft
Biography
George Raft, originally named George Ranft, was born on September 26, 1895, and passed away on November 24, 1980. He was a prominent American actor and dancer who became synonymous with the gangster archetype in the crime dramas of the 1930s and 1940s. With his suave demeanor and captivating screen presence, Raft starred in a multitude of films that showcased his talent. He is perhaps best remembered for his iconic roles in classic movies like the original Scarface (1932) and Each Dawn I Die (1939).
Beyond his tough-guy persona, Raft also demonstrated his versatility as a performer in various genres. He showcased his dancing skills in Bolero (1934) and delivered a memorable performance as a truck driver in the film They Drive by Night (1940). Raft's filmography is marked by a blend of crime and comedy, culminating in a notable appearance in Billy Wilder's beloved 1959 classic, Some Like It Hot.
Throughout his career, Raft maintained a reputation as a stylish leading man, captivating audiences with his charm and charisma. Despite the passage of time, his legacy endures, with his contributions to cinema continuing to be celebrated by film enthusiasts around the world.
Filmography
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Souls at Sea
1937 • Powdah
Invisible Stripes
1939 • Cliff Taylor
Johnny Angel
1945 • Johnny Angel
Spawn of the North
1938 • Tyler Dawson
The Upper Hand
1966 • Charles Binnaggio
They Drive by Night
1940 • Joe Fabrini
The Bowery
1933 • Steve Brodie
Five Golden Dragons
1967 • Dragon #2
Palmy Days
1931 • Joe
Race Street
1948 • Dan Gannin
Loan Shark
1952 • Joe Gargen
Escape Route
1952 • Steve Rossi
Nocturne
1946 • Joe Warne
The House Across the Bay
1940 • Steve Larwitt
The Man with Bogart's Face
1980
Each Dawn I Die
1939 • 'Hood' Stacey
Casino Royale
1967
If I Had a Million
1932 • Eddie Jackson
Background to Danger
1943 • Joe Barton
Sextette
1978
Nob Hill
1945 • Tony Angelo
Christmas Eve
1947 • Mario Torio