Who Is Jack Elam? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Jack Elam was born on November 13, 1920, and passed away on October 20, 2003, making him 82 years old at the time of his death. Known for his rugged looks and versatile acting skills, Elam became a well-regarded figure in Hollywood, especially noted for his roles in Western films and television shows. His unique facial features, particularly his squint, helped him forge a niche as a character actor.
Elam garnered fame in the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in a wide array of films, including signature roles in Western classics like Once Upon a Time in the West and Support Your Local Sheriff! His extensive career left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
| Occupation | Actors |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 13, 1920 |
| Age | 82 Years |
| Birth Place | Miami, Arizona, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 20 October, 2003 |
| Died Place | Ashland, Oregon, U.S. |
Popularity
Jack Elam's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Jack Elam stood at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm). While details regarding his weight and specific body measurements are not widely documented, his commanding stature contributed to his on-screen presence. He was known for a robust figure that aligned perfectly with the rugged characters he portrayed.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Jack Elam was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage to Ruth Margaret (Marty) Phebus lasted from 1942 until their divorce in 1961. Together, they had two children, a daughter named Kathy and a son named Jeff. Elam had a second marriage to Miriam Elam, which lasted until his death. Throughout his life, Elam maintained a relatively private profile regarding his personal relationships, focusing more on his career and family.
Born in 1920 in Miami, Arizonaa small mining town located 85 miles east of PhoenixJack was one of two children of Millard Elam (1887–1965) and Alice Amelia, née Kerby (1884–1924) Jack's father supported the family by working assorted jobs over the years, including stints as a carpenter, millman, and accountant.
The Elams by 1924 had moved from Miami to the nearby community of Globe, Arizona, where in September that year Alice died at the age of 40, succumbing to what state medical records cite as a three-year struggle with "general paralysis".
After their mother's death, young Jack and his older sister Mildred went to live with various family members until Millard married again in April 1928 to Kansas native Flossie Varney.
Federal census records show that two years later the children, their father, stepmother, and Flossie's own mother were residing together in Globe, where Millard had a new job as an investigator for a loan company.
Flossie was employed as well at the time as a public school teacher, while Jack also contributed to the family's income by periodically working on nearby farms gleaning cotton.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Jack Elam’s estimated net worth was around $5 million. His earnings emanated from his extensive career in film, television, and theater. Throughout his career, he earned a competitive salary, particularly for his roles in blockbuster films and popular television series, contributing to his financial success.
Career, Business, and Investments
Jack Elam’s career spanned over five decades, with notable film appearances and television roles. He starred in over 150 films, displaying a versatility that allowed him to transition between genres — from Westerns to comedies. Elam was also a skilled magician and occasionally incorporated magic into his performances.
Beyond acting, Elam had various business ventures, though specific details are scarce. His focus remained predominantly on his acting career, where he carved his legacy in Hollywood.
William Scott "Jack" Elam (November 13, 1920 – October 20, 2003) was an American film and television actor best known for his numerous roles as villains in Western films and, later in his career, comedies (sometimes spoofing his villainous image). His most distinguishing physical quality was his misaligned eye.
Before his career in acting, he took several jobs in finance and served two years in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Elam performed in 73 movies and in at least 41 television series.
Social Network
Though Jack Elam passed away in 2003, his legacy endures through social media tributes from fans and classic movie enthusiasts. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook often feature posts commemorating his contributions to cinema. His fans continue to celebrate his work, sharing clips, quotes, and memorabilia that highlight his significant impact on the entertainment industry.
In 1966 Jack Elam was cast in his first comedic role by Paramount Pictures, playing Hank in the Western film The Night of the Grizzly starring Clint Walker.
The next year, for the Harold Hecht production The Way West, he was chosen for another light-hearted role, playing Preacher Weatherby and providing support to costars Robert Mitchum, Richard Widmark, and Kirk Douglas in a story about a wagon train traveling the Oregon Trail.
Then, in 1968, Elam performed in the opening scenes of Sergio Leone's celebrated "spaghetti Western" Once Upon a Time in the West. In that film he portrays one of a trio of gunslingers sent to a train station to kill Charles Bronson's character.
Elam in one sequence spends a good portion of his screen time simply trying to rid himself of an annoying fly, finally capturing the elusive insect inside the barrel of his pistol.
Education
Jack Elam pursued higher education at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he developed his passion for acting. His educational background laid the foundation for a successful career in entertainment, demonstrating that early educational experiences often shape future stars.
