Deaths on February 6

Joseph Cotten, American actor (b. 1905)

Joseph Cheshire Cotten Jr. (May 15, 1905 – February 6, 1994) was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned stage, film, radio, and television. Renowned for his suave demeanor, nuanced performances, and distinctive baritone voice, Cotten became a prominent figure in Hollywood's Golden Age, celebrated for his versatility across diverse genres from psychological thrillers to romantic dramas.

Before his cinematic breakthrough, Cotten established himself as a formidable presence on Broadway. He garnered significant acclaim for his starring roles in original stage productions that would later become classics. Notably, he originated the role of C.K. Dexter Haven in Philip Barry's iconic romantic comedy, The Philadelphia Story, which premiered in 1939. His portrayal opposite Katharine Hepburn captivated audiences and critics alike. He further cemented his Broadway reputation with a leading role in Samuel Taylor's charming play, Sabrina Fair, in 1953, showcasing his enduring appeal and theatrical prowess.

Collaboration with Orson Welles and Global Acclaim

Joseph Cotten's global fame truly began with his pivotal collaborations with visionary director Orson Welles. Their professional relationship originated in the innovative Mercury Theatre, a renowned independent repertory company co-founded by Welles and John Houseman, where Cotten was a founding member. This theatrical foundation provided Cotten with the disciplined versatility that would define his screen presence.

• Citizen Kane (1941): Cotten starred as Jedediah Leland, Charles Foster Kane's closest friend and conscience, in what is widely considered one of the greatest films ever made. His performance as the idealistic and eventually disillusioned newspaper critic was central to the film's complex narrative structure and character study, contributing significantly to its revolutionary impact on cinema.
• The Magnificent Ambersons (1942): In this deeply poignant adaptation of Booth Tarkington's novel, Cotten played Eugene Morgan, a forward-thinking automobile pioneer entangled in the fading fortunes of the aristocratic Amberson family. Despite extensive studio interference and re-editing, Cotten's sensitive portrayal resonated deeply with audiences and critics.
• Journey into Fear (1943): This suspenseful espionage thriller, based on Eric Ambler's novel, saw Cotten not only in a starring role as Howard Graham but also credited with the screenplay. His dual contribution highlighted his creative input and understanding of narrative, showcasing him as more than just an actor in the Welles orbit.

Leading Man in Hollywood's Golden Age

Following his groundbreaking work with Orson Welles, Joseph Cotten seamlessly transitioned into becoming one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading men throughout the 1940s and early 1950s. His ability to convey both charm and an underlying sense of menace made him particularly effective in dramatic and suspenseful roles. He frequently collaborated with acclaimed directors and shared the screen with legendary actresses, demonstrating his immense range and appeal.

Key films from this prolific period include:

• Shadow of a Doubt (1943): Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this psychological thriller cast Cotten against type as the charming yet sinister serial killer, Uncle Charlie. His chilling performance remains a highlight of Hitchcock's oeuvre, proving Cotten's capability to portray complex villains.
• Gaslight (1944): In this acclaimed psychological drama, Cotten played Brian Cameron, the detective who helps Ingrid Bergman's character uncover the manipulative actions of her husband. The film became synonymous with the term "gaslighting" and showcased Cotten's ability to navigate tense, atmospheric narratives.
• Love Letters (1945): A romantic drama that allowed Cotten to display his tender and melancholic side alongside Jennifer Jones.
• Duel in the Sun (1946): This Technicolor Western epic, produced by David O. Selznick, was a grand spectacle that solidified Cotten's status as a top-tier star, where he played the more honorable of the two brothers vying for the love of a spirited woman.
• Portrait of Jennie (1948): A unique fantasy romance that saw Cotten as a struggling artist captivated by a mysterious young woman who appears to be aging rapidly. The film's ethereal quality provided a distinctive role for the actor.
• The Third Man (1949): Often cited as a masterpiece of film noir, this British production directed by Carol Reed featured Cotten as Holly Martins, an American pulp novelist investigating the suspicious death of his friend Harry Lime (Orson Welles) in post-war Vienna. Cotten's portrayal anchored the film's tense atmosphere and intricate plot, further enhanced by Anton Karas' iconic zither score.
• Niagara (1953): While primarily remembered for starring Marilyn Monroe in a breakout dramatic role, Cotten delivered a powerful performance as her troubled and tormented husband, contributing to the film's dark and suspenseful tone.

Cotten continued to work steadily throughout the latter half of the 20th century, transitioning into character roles in film and television. One of his final significant big-screen appearances was in Michael Cimino's ambitious and controversial epic Western, Heaven's Gate (1980). Though initially a critical and commercial failure, the film has since undergone a re-evaluation, serving as a poignant late-career testament to Cotten's enduring presence in cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joseph Cotten

What was Joseph Cotten's relationship with Orson Welles?

Joseph Cotten was a foundational member of Orson Welles's Mercury Theatre, moving with Welles from acclaimed stage and radio productions into iconic cinematic collaborations. Their partnership was highly significant, resulting in some of the most influential films in history, including Citizen Kane, The Magnificent Ambersons, and Journey into Fear.

Which Alfred Hitchcock film did Joseph Cotten star in?

Joseph Cotten starred in Alfred Hitchcock's critically acclaimed 1943 psychological thriller, Shadow of a Doubt. He delivered a memorable performance as the charming yet menacing serial killer, Uncle Charlie.

What were some of Joseph Cotten's most famous films from the 1940s?

Beyond his collaborations with Orson Welles, Cotten's most notable films from the 1940s include Alfred Hitchcock's Shadow of a Doubt (1943), Gaslight (1944), Love Letters (1945), Duel in the Sun (1946), Portrait of Jennie (1948), and the classic film noir The Third Man (1949).

Did Joseph Cotten act in television or only film and stage?

Joseph Cotten was a versatile actor who worked across all major mediums. In addition to his prominent film and stage careers, he also had a significant presence in radio during its golden age and later appeared extensively in television productions, including various anthology series and made-for-TV movies, showcasing his adaptability.