Pat Buttram, American actor and comedian (b. 1915)

Maxwell Emmett Buttram (June 19, 1915 – January 8, 1994), universally recognized by his professional moniker, Pat Buttram, was a prolific American character actor whose distinctive voice and memorable roles left an indelible mark on Hollywood's golden age of Westerns and classic television comedies. Born in Addison, Alabama, Buttram's career spanned decades, showcasing his versatility from comedic foils to beloved animated characters.

The Quintessential Western Sidekick: Pat Buttram and Gene Autry

Buttram first rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, becoming intrinsically linked with the iconic "Singing Cowboy," Gene Autry. From 1947 to 1953, Buttram appeared in over 40 films alongside Autry, solidifying his reputation as the loyal, often bumbling, yet always endearing sidekick. Roles like "Stoney Mason" and "Piney White" in films such as The Strawberry Roan (1948) and Riders in the Sky (1949) showcased his knack for comedic timing and his ability to complement Autry's heroic persona. Their on-screen chemistry extended beyond films to Autry's popular radio show, Melody Ranch, and The Gene Autry Show television series, cementing Buttram's status as a familiar and beloved presence in American Western entertainment.

Mr. Haney: An Enduring Legacy in Green Acres

While his Western roles endeared him to a generation, Pat Buttram achieved his most widespread and enduring fame as Eustace P. Haney on the beloved CBS television sitcom Green Acres, which aired from 1965 to 1971. In this iconic role, Buttram expertly portrayed the perpetually conniving, fast-talking general store owner and salesman who would arrive uninvited to the Douglases' farm, always with a bizarre invention or dubious deal. Mr. Haney, known for his signature fedora, ever-present sales patter, and the knack for reclaiming items he'd previously sold, became one of the most recognizable and quoted characters in television history. His distinct Southern drawl and unique vocal cadence were perfectly suited to Haney's outlandish schemes, making him a central comedic pillar of the show's surreal humor, which often involved breaking the fourth wall and satirizing rural life.

A Voice Unmistakable: "Never Quite Made It Through Puberty"

Perhaps Pat Buttram's most distinctive attribute was his voice, which he famously quipped "never quite made it through puberty." This high-pitched, gravelly, and instantly recognizable vocal quality became his professional trademark. It was this unique voice that not only characterized his live-action performances, particularly as Mr. Haney, but also made him a sought-after voice actor for Walt Disney Productions. Buttram lent his vocal talents to memorable animated characters, including Napoleon the dog in The Aristocats (1970), the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood (1973), Luke in The Rescuers (1977), and Chief in The Fox and the Hound (1981). His voice added an unmistakable charm and humor to these animated roles, further cementing his versatile career across various entertainment mediums.

Beyond the Screen: A Career of Versatility

Beyond his defining roles, Buttram's career showcased a wide range of talents. He appeared in numerous other television series and films, often bringing his unique comedic flair to supporting roles. His work extended into radio, and he was known for his witty anecdotes and engaging personality off-screen. Pat Buttram passed away in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most beloved and distinctive character actors, whose voice and presence continue to resonate with audiences across generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pat Buttram

Who was Pat Buttram?

Pat Buttram, born Maxwell Emmett Buttram, was an American character actor celebrated for his unique voice and memorable roles, particularly as Gene Autry's sidekick in Westerns and as the iconic Mr. Haney in the television series Green Acres.

What was Pat Buttram's most famous role?

Pat Buttram is most widely recognized for his portrayal of Eustace P. Haney, the opportunistic traveling salesman, on the popular 1960s sitcom Green Acres.

What made Pat Buttram's voice distinctive?

Buttram possessed a famously high-pitched, gravelly voice that he humorously described as "never quite made it through puberty." This unique vocal quality became his signature, contributing significantly to his comedic timing and making his characters instantly recognizable.

Did Pat Buttram do voice acting?

Yes, Pat Buttram was a notable voice actor for Walt Disney Productions, lending his voice to beloved animated characters such as Napoleon in The Aristocats, the Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood, and Chief in The Fox and the Hound.

What was Pat Buttram's connection to Gene Autry?

Pat Buttram served as Gene Autry's comedic sidekick in over 40 Western films and on Autry's radio and television shows from the late 1940s to the early 1950s, establishing him as a prominent figure in the Western genre.