Lester Burton Podewell, a renowned Chicago-based actor, was born on November 3, 1907, in Chicago, Illinois, USA, to Edwin L. Podewell (1881-1964) and Anna B. Birkgit (1881-1961). His life took a dramatic turn when he met actress Beverly Ruth Younger (1915-1999) in the Eugene O'Neill play, The Straw, in which they both had starring roles. This chance encounter blossomed into a lifelong romance, and the couple tied the knot later that year in 1937.
Throughout his illustrious career, Podewell had the privilege of sharing the screen with an array of talented actors, including Chuck Norris in Equinox (1985),Stockard Channing in Meet the Applegates (1990),and John Candy in Only the Lonely (1991). His last cinematic appearance was in the iconic film Groundhog Day (1993),where he played the role of a homeless elderly gentleman befriended by the charismatic Bill Murray.
In addition to his work on the big screen, Podewell lent his voice to various radio episodes, including Sky King, The Shadow, and Little Orphan Annie. His remarkable performance in David Mamet's adaptation of Anton Chekov's "The Cherry Orchard" at the Goodman Theater in Chicago in 1985 earned him widespread critical acclaim.
Tragically, Podewell's life was cut short when he suffered a stroke and passed away at his home on November 22, 1998, in Evanston, Illinois, USA. Despite his untimely departure, his legacy as a talented and dedicated actor continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
