José Isbert

José Isbert, born José Ysbert Alvarruiz on March 3, 1886, in Madrid, was a distinguished Spanish actor whose career spanned several decades and left a significant mark on Spanish cinema. He made his film debut in 1912 with the short film *Asesinato y entierro de Don José Canalejas*, portraying Pardiñas, the anarchist responsible for the assassination of José Canalejas. While he initially focused on theater during the silent film era, Isbert experienced a resurgence in popularity with the introduction of sound in films, notably starring in Florián Rey's comedy *La pura verdad* in 1931.

Throughout the 1930s, he appeared in a variety of films, including *¿Cuándo te suicidas?* (1931) and *El bailarín y el trabajador* (1935), showcasing his versatility. The 1940s marked a peak in his career with notable performances in *Te quiero para mí* and *El testamento del virrey* (both 1944), as well as *El fantasma y doña Juanita* (1945).

Isbert is perhaps best remembered for his roles in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in the classics of director Luis García Berlanga, such as *Welcome Mr. Marshall!* (1953) and *El verdugo* (1963). He also starred in the iconic film *El cochecito* by Marco Ferreri. His portrayal of the grandfather in *La gran familia* (1962) and its sequel further cemented his legacy in Spanish cinema. José Isbert passed away on November 28, 1966, in Madrid, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to resonate in the film industry.