James Murray (actor)

James Murray (February 9, 1901 - July 11, 1936) was an American movie actor.

Related Topics:
February 9 - 1901 - July 11 - 1936 - American - Actor

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Born in the Bronx, James Murray went to west to Hollywood in the 1920's to try to succeed as an actor. After several years of work as an extra with little hope of a starring role, he was "discovered" by director King Vidor, who saw Murray hanging around the MGM lot. Vidor was about to begin work on a new film and thought Murray might look right for the lead. Murray, however, failed to show up for the meeting he arranged with Vidor, apparently thinking it to be a joke. Vidor subsequently tracked him down, and Murray's performance in The Crowd was lauded by both the critics and the public.

Related Topics:
King Vidor - MGM - The Crowd

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Despite success in subsequent films, Murray's life soon took a turn for the tragic. Excessive drinking on Murray's part led to a scarcity of roles, and by 1934 he was homeless and panhandling on the street. In an instance of extreme coincidence, he tried begging from a man who turned out to be King Vidor. Vidor offered Murray a role in his upcoming film, Our Daily Bread, but Murray turned it down, deeming it an act of pity.

Related Topics:
1934 - Our Daily Bread

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In 1936, Murray's body was found drowned in the Hudson River. It was unclear as to whether or not it was a suicide.

Related Topics:
1936 - Hudson River

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