Vince Barnett
Vince Barnett (born July 4, 1902 – passed away August 10, 1977) was a notable American actor renowned for his work in both film and television. His journey in the entertainment industry began on stage.
Initially, Barnett entered Hollywood as a screenwriter, crafting screenplays for short films, commonly known as two-reelers, during the late 1920s. He transitioned to acting in 1930, where he portrayed numerous comedic roles and supporting characters. One of his more significant performances was as the dim-witted, illiterate gangster "secretary" in the classic film Scarface (1932). Among his other early notable appearances were in films such as The Big Cage (1933), Thirty Day Princess (1934), and Princess O'Hara (1935).
As his career progressed, Barnett took on more serious roles, often embodying weary characters such as undertakers, janitors, bartenders, and drunks. His versatility allowed him to appear in a variety of genres, including film noir like The Killers (1946) and westerns like Springfield Rifle (1952). He was also a familiar face in "B" comedies and mysteries, playing roles as colorful gangsters in films including Petticoat Larceny (1943), Little Miss Broadway (1947), and Gas House Kids Go West (1947), along with a memorable performance as Tom Conway’s zealous sidekick in The Falcon's Alibi (1946).
Following World War II, as the film industry saw a decline in production, Barnett transitioned to television, becoming a recognizable figure on the small screen.
Filmography
Zebra in the Kitchen
Knock on Any Door
Seven Sinners (1940)
Don't Bet on Blondes
Sixpack Annie
Carson City
Mule Train
The Killers
Fast Workers
Bowery at Midnight
Horse Feathers
Flesh
The Virginian (1946)
Riffraff
Ride 'em, Cowgirl
Mr. District Attorney
Deputy Marshal
She Loves Me Not
Tiger Shark
Hallelujah, I'm a Bum
Sensation Hunters
Brute Force
Puddin' Head
The Quiet Gun
The Family Jewels
Shoot to Kill
The Prizefighter and the Lady
The Corpse Vanishes
High Wall
The Crooked Web
Bowery Bombshell
Summer School Teachers
Wide Open