Marvin Miller, a talented individual, began his journey in St. Louis, Missouri, where he attended Washington University. During his time at the institution, he was actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including dramatic and musical comedy groups, playing in the band, and editing the school newspaper. His passion for radio led him to start his professional career in the field, making his debut in his freshman year.
Despite being rejected initially for a job at a local radio station without prior training, Miller persevered and returned a few days later to audition as a character actor. He showcased his versatility by playing multiple roles in a sketch he had written himself, including an Englishman, a Frenchman, an Italian, an American gangster, and a straight man. This impressive display earned him a job as a summer replacement.
After graduating from Washington University, Miller relocated to Chicago, where he quickly became a leading announcer and actor. Before leaving for Hollywood in 1944, he was appearing on an average of 45 broadcasts a week, earning him the nickname "Chicago's one-man radio industry" from Variety.
Miller's success in Chicago paved the way for his entry into the Hollywood scene. Upon his arrival, he began landing parts in major programs and shows, including The Millionaire, Insight, The Famous Adventures of Mr. Magoo, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, Space Patrol, The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, The F.B.I., and Love, American Style, among many others. In addition to his live-action work, Miller also provided character voice work, showcasing his exceptional dialect skills.
One of his most notable roles was as the French Surete's Commissioner in DePatie-Freleng's "The Inspector" cartoons, which he alternated with Voice Actor Paul Frees. He also lent his voice to various characters in other cartoons, including "The Pink Panther Show." Miller's talents extended to the world of music, as he narrated films such as My Country 'Tis of Thee and Unidentified Flying Objects: The True Story of Flying Saucers.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Miller had a range of hobbies, including woodworking, collecting menus, bookbinding, painting, photography, and collecting rare phonograph recordings. He also recorded the entire Holy Bible on record, a feat that had never been accomplished before. This monumental task took a week and a half to complete and contained over a million words.
