Born: March 4, 1913 - Died: May 21, 1952
John Garfield, born Jacob Julius Garfinkle on March 4, 1913, in New York City, was a talented actor known for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Raised by his father, a clothes presser and part-time cantor, after his mother's death at a young age, Garfield overcame adversity and found his passion for boxing and drama while attending a special school for problem children. With his Broadway debut in the Counsellor-at-Law, he eventually transitioned to Hollywood and gained acclaim for his role as Mickey Borden in Four Daughters. Despite facing obstacles and being embroiled in the Communist scare of the late 1940s, Garfield left a lasting legacy in the film industry.
Early Life and Career
John Garfield had a challenging childhood, losing his mother at a young age and being raised solely by his father. Despite these difficulties, he discovered his love for boxing and drama while attending a special school for problem children. Garfield's talent eventually led him to make his Broadway debut in "Counsellor-at-Law." It was his transition to Hollywood and his role as Mickey Borden in "Four Daughters" that truly propelled him to success. This breakthrough role garnered critical acclaim and solidified his place in the film industry. Throughout his career, Garfield won numerous accolades and was known for his intense and versatile performances. Although plagued by scandals, including his involvement in the Communist scare, Garfield remains an influential figure in the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1951 | He Ran All the Way | Nick Robey |
| 1950 | The Breaking Point | Harry Morgan |
| 1950 | Under My Skin | Dan Butler |
| 1949 | We Were Strangers | Tony Fenner |
| 1949 | Jigsaw | Loafer with Newspaper (cameo appearance) (uncredited) |
| 1948 | Force of Evil | Joe Morse |
| 1947 | Daisy Kenyon | John Garfield (uncredited) |
| 1947 | Gentleman's Agreement | Dave Goldman |
| 1947 | Body and Soul | Charley Davis |
| 1947 | The Postman Always Rings Twice: The Radio Play (Video) | Frank Chambers (voice) |
| 1946 | Humoresque | Paul Boray |
| 1946 | Nobody Lives Forever | Nick Blake |
| 1946 | The Postman Always Rings Twice | Frank Chambers |
| 1945 | Pride of the Marines | Al Schmid |
| 1944 | Hollywood Canteen | John Garfield |
| 1944 | Between Two Worlds | Tom Prior |
| 1943 | Destination Tokyo | Wolf |
| 1943 | Thank Your Lucky Stars | John Garfield |
| 1943 | The Fallen Sparrow | John McKittrick |
| 1943 | Air Force | Sergeant Joe Winocki - 'Mary Ann' Rear Gunner |
| 1942 | Tortilla Flat | Danny |
| 1941 | Dangerously They Live | Dr. Michael Lewis |
| 1941 | Out of the Fog | Harold Goff |
| 1941 | The Sea Wolf | George Leach |
| 1940 | East of the River | Joe Lorenzo |
| 1940 | Flowing Gold | Johnny Blake |
| 1940 | Saturday's Children | Rims Rosson |
| 1940 | Castle on the Hudson | Tommy Gordan |
| 1939 | Four Wives | Mickey Borden |
| 1939 | Dust Be My Destiny | Joe Bell |
| 1939 | Daughters Courageous | Gabriel Lopez |
| 1939 | Juarez | Porfirio Diaz |
| 1939 | Blackwell's Island | Tim Haydon |
| 1939 | They Made Me a Criminal | Johnnie Bradfield |
| 1938 | Swingtime in the Movies (Short) | John Garfield (uncredited) |
| 1938 | Four Daughters | Mickey Borden |
