John Charles Andes, better known as Keith Andes, was a talented actor born on July 12, 1920, in Ocean City, New Jersey. He began his career in radio at the age of 12, singing and acting throughout his high school years.
Keith's big break came when he performed in the patriotic Broadway stage show "Winged Victory" during World War II, which caught the attention of studio mogul Darryl F. Zanuck. He was subsequently given a minor role in the film adaptation the following year.
After the war, Keith returned to Hollywood and landed a role in the classic film "The Farmer's Daughter" (1947),starring alongside Loretta Young and Lex Barker. His physique and photogenic good looks made him a natural fit for rugged adventures and beefcake dramas.
Keith's notable roles include "Clash by Night" (1952),where he co-starred with Marilyn Monroe, and "Blackbeard, the Pirate" (1952),showcasing his swashbuckling skills. He also appeared in the musicals "The Chocolate Soldier" (1947),"Kiss Me Kate" (1953),and "Wildcat" (1960),opposite Lucille Ball.
On television, Keith made numerous episodic appearances on popular shows such as "Have Gun, Will Travel," "The Rifleman," "77 Sunset Strip," and "Perry Mason." He co-starred in the television series "This Man Dawson" (1959) and "Glynis" (1963),alongside Glynis Johns.
Keith Andes continued to work in film and television until his retirement, making his final appearance in the TV movie "Blinded by the Light" (1980). He then lived on a boat, running charters to Catalina and Mexico. Keith was twice married and had two children, Mark and Matt, with his first wife Jean Alice Cotton. Mark Andes became a rock musician.
Sadly, Keith's later years were marked by extreme ill health, including bladder cancer, and he took his own life at the age of 85 in his Santa Clarita, California home.
