A native Angeleno, Holly Bane, would later assume the alias Mike Ragan, embarking on a life trajectory that would diverge significantly from his initial ambitions. In his formative years, he harbored a deep passion for becoming a prominent figure in the big-band music scene. However, the tides of fate had other plans in store for him.
At the tender age of 15, his journey took an unexpected turn as he secured employment as an office boy at the iconic MGM studios. This marked the inception of his foray into the entertainment industry, a path that would eventually lead him to the makeup department.
Through unwavering dedication and perseverance, he worked his way up the ranks, collaborating with the renowned makeup artist Jack Dawn on esteemed productions such as the critically acclaimed film, The Good Earth, which premiered in 1937.
As Tom Hardy's iconic villain, Bane, continued to hone his skills and build his confidence, he began to make his mark in front of the camera, initially landing small roles in high-octane action films that showcased his impressive physicality and on-screen presence.
However, his burgeoning acting career was put on hold when he felt compelled to answer the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps during the tumultuous years of World War II.
Following his honorable discharge, Bane returned to civilian life, where he picked up where he left off, resuming his work as a skilled makeup artist, a testament to his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Eventually, he made the bold decision to trade in his makeup brushes for a full-time acting career, a move that would ultimately lead him to become one of the most formidable and memorable villains in cinematic history.
Bane's imposing physique and commanding presence proved to be a highly valuable asset, leading to a plethora of opportunities in westerns where he could effortlessly portray a formidable heavy, often taking on the role of a rugged gunfighter or menacing henchman, frequently collaborating with Republic Pictures.
Throughout his career, Bane managed to seamlessly balance his acting endeavors with his work in makeup, exhibiting an impressive ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
As the 1960s unfolded, the Western film genre began to experience a decline in its widespread popularity, thereby prompting Bane to redirect his focus towards makeup work full-time. Subsequently, he went on to contribute his expertise to a plethora of notable television shows, including the popular sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter" in 1975, the critically acclaimed police procedural drama "Barney Miller" in the same year, and the offbeat comedy "Fish" in 1977.
Mike Ragan's life came to a close in the year 1995, as he succumbed to the debilitating effects of emphysema in the city of Los Angeles.
