Biography:
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
James Barton (November 1, 1890 - February 19, 1962) was an American vaudevillian
and a character actor in films and television.
Born into a theatrical family in Gloucester City, New Jersey, Barton began
performing in minstrel shows and burlesque houses throughout the country in
1898. His years of experience working with African American performers led to
his becoming one of the first jazz dancers in America. After working with
repertory companies in the South and Midwest, he made his Broadway debut in the
musical revue The Passing Show of 1919 in a role originally intended for Ed
Wynn. He frequently was the highlight in mediocre productions, and a critic for
the Daily News noted, "Whenever the book failed him, he shuffled into one or
more of his eccentric dances." Additional theatre credits include Sweet and Low,
Tobacco Road, The Iceman Cometh, and Paint Your Wagon.
Barton's film career began in the silent era. His screen credits include The
Time of Your Life, Here Comes the Groom, and The Misfits. On television he
appeared in The Ford Television Theatre, Lux Video Theatre, Studio One, The
Kaiser Aluminum Hour, Playhouse 90, Kraft Television Theatre, The Rifleman,
Adventures in Paradise, and Naked City.
Barton died of a heart attack in Mineola, New York.
Bing Crosby considered James Barton to be one his ten favorite performers of all
time, alongside names such as Al Jolson, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne, Louis
Armstrong, Judy Garland and Nat King Cole.
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