In Passing: Van Johnson (1916-2008)
American film and television actor Van Johnson passed away on Dec. 12. Born Charles Van Johnson in Rhode Island, he grew up and became interested in entertainment, moving up to New York to try his luck. He gained a few parts on Broadway and was noticed by Warner Bros. in "Pal Joey" in 1940, whereby they offered him a six-month contract. After WB let him go, friend Lucille Ball got him noticed by MGM where his career really took off. After a nearly-fatal accident left him with a metal plate in his head, he was disqualified for war service but did his part by playing in war films such as "A Guy Named Joe," and "Thirty Seconds over Tokyo." Additionally he was in comedies, musicals, and dramas such as "The Caine Mutiny." His film career tapered-off in the 50s and 60s and he returned to stage in such productions as "The Music Man," "Guys and Dolls," and "Bye Bye Birdie." His last film was in 1992.
Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
For more information, check out his IMDB page at:
Published by Chas Andrews
Chas Andrews is a freelance/ Internet film writer that hails from Louisville, KY. He writes screenplays/ scripts, short stories, film reviews, and is in the process of working on a novel. View profile
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