Ward Bond: A Hollywood Legend
Ward Bond was a prolific American actor who appeared in over 200 films and television shows. He was known for his gruff voice and commanding presence, and he often played authority figures such as lawmen, military officers, and ranchers. His net worth was estimated to be around $10 million at the time of his death in 1960.
Ward Bond: Career Highlights
| Stage | Years | Notable Achievements |
| Early Stage (Theater) | 1920s-1930s | Performed in various regional productions, honing his acting skills and gaining experience. |
| Film Breakthrough (1930s-1940s) | 1930s-1940s | Landed supporting roles in major films like They Died with Their Boots On and The Maltese Falcon. Transitioned to prominent roles in Westerns like The Big Trail and Fort Apache. |
| Western Stardom (1940s-1950s) | 1940s-1950s | Became a leading man in Westerns, starring in iconic films like The Searchers, Rio Bravo, and Red River. Established himself as a popular character actor, appearing in diverse films like It’s a Wonderful Life and The Wrong Man. |
| Television Success (1950s) | 1950s | Achieved widespread recognition for his starring role as Major Seth Adams in the beloved Western TV series Wagon Train, running for four seasons. |
| Later Career (1950s-1960) | 1950s-1960 | Continued to act in films and television shows, including appearances in The Alamo and The Rifleman. Contributed to voice acting for animated films like Sleeping Beauty. |
Early life and career
Ward Bond was born in Denver, Colorado, in 1903. He began his acting career in the theater, and he eventually made his way to Hollywood in the 1930s.
Film career
Bond’s film career took off in the 1940s, when he began appearing in Westerns such as The Searchers and Rio Bravo. He also starred in a number of other genres, including war films, comedies, and dramas.
Television career
In the 1950s, Bond found success on television with the popular Western series Wagon Train. He played the lead role of Major Seth Adams for four seasons.
Personal life
Ward Bond was married twice and had three children. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and he was also an avid golfer.
Death
Ward Bond died of a heart attack in 1960 at the age of 57.
Legacy
Ward Bond is remembered as one of the most iconic actors of his generation. He was a talented and versatile performer who left a lasting impression on Hollywood.
