Guy Kibbee: Movies & Box Office

Guy Bridges Kibbee (March 6, 1882 – May 24, 1956) was an American stage and film actor, born and raised in El Paso, Texas. At the tender age of 14, he ran away to join a traveling show, ending up in the entertainment industry on Mississippi riverboats. He started his acting tenure in traveling stock companies as a romantic lead despite hair loss from 19. His Broadway debut came via 'Torch Song' in 1930 and consequently, sparked Hollywood's interest, leading to Paramount Pictures signing him, which saw him move to California. As part of the Warner Bros. stock company, he transitioned across various productions in supporting roles.

Particularly known for playing jovial characters, Kibbee is best remembered for roles in '42nd Street' (1933), 'Gold Diggers of 1933' (1933), 'Captain Blood' (1935), and 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' (1939). One of his standout performances was in 'Babbit' (1934) where he played the title role. In his personal life, Kibbee was twice married and a father to two children. His first wife was Helen Shay with whom he had a son - Robert Kibbee, who went on to become Chancellor of the City University of New York. His second wife Ethel 'Brownie' Reed bore him a daughter, Shirley Ann. Kibbee passed away from Parkinson's disease in 1956.