Vinton Hayworth

Vinton Hayworth (June 4, 1906 – May 21, 1970) was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned several decades, evolving from quirky supporting roles to more authoritative character portrayals.

Born in Washington, D.C., Hayworth embarked on his acting journey in his late teens and quickly became a notable figure in radio broadcasting during the early 1920s. He started his career in Washington, D.C., before moving to New York City and then Chicago, where he made significant contributions to radio as an announcer and performer.

Transitioning to film in 1933 under the pseudonym Jack Arnold, he showcased his talent through a series of comedic and endearing characters. His film career took a brief pause during a successful two-year stint on Broadway from 1942 to 1944, after which he returned to the California film scene. Notably, Hayworth was instrumental in founding the American Federation of Radio Artists (AFRA), later known as AFTRA, and served as its president from 1951 to 1954.

In the 1950s, he made his television debut and featured in a variety of popular series, including Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, and Perry Mason. He is perhaps best remembered for his role as Carlos Galindo in Disney's Zorro and as General Winfield Schaeffer on I Dream of Jeannie, a role he took on shortly before his untimely death from a heart attack in 1970. Married to actress Jean Owens, Hayworth was also the uncle of famed actress Rita Hayworth. He was cremated after his passing just days before the final episode of I Dream of Jeannie aired.