Joseph Cotten

Joseph Cheshire Cotten, Jr. was an American actor who made a name with his works in films, theater plays, television shows, and radio. He earned a reputable position in Broadway after working in The Philadelphia Story and Sabrina Fair which was an original stage production. His illustrious career has seen him play a variety of roles in many distinct films and stage acts. His Hollywood film resume includes many famous movies like Love letters (1943), Portrait of Jennie (1948), Dual in the Sun (1946), Shadow of Doubt (1943), The Third Man (1949), Niagara (1953) and many others. He wrote the screenplay for the film Journey into Fear which was released in 1943.

Born on 15th ​May 1905, Cotten was the elder most son of assistant postmaster Ceshire Cotton Sr. and Sally Willson Cotten. He was born in Petersburg, Virginia and grew up in Tidewater region. Being a theater critic, he was inspired to work in theater productions and went on to do so both in Virginia and New York City. 1930 was the year he made his debut on Broadway. He was the inaugural member Mercury Theatre which was Welles’s company. He starred in Broadway productions like the Shoemaker’s Holiday, Ceasar and Danton’s Death.

The tall, handsome and always well-dressed actor made his debut in movies in a short film directed by Welles, named Too Much Johnson. The short film was based on William Gillettes play in 1890. Unfortunately, the movie was never released in public. He was part of the film Citizen Kane which portrayed a press magnets life. The lead character, Kane, was played by Welles himself and Kane’s best friend’s role was acted out by Cotten.

Citizen Kane received many applause and praise but didn't really live up to the expectations for some and bombed at the theaters a result. It was nominated for nine Academy Awards. Cotten was voted the 17th most famous star in USA, during the mid-1940's. He devoted more than 40 years acting and working in movies. His first wife, Lenore Kipp, died due to leukemia. Cotten married actress Patricia Medina a year later. He made mostly sci-fi and B-grade movies later on in his career, but his talent and skills were never neglected. Due to cancer his larynx, was removed during the early 90's.On February 6th, 1994 lost his life at the age of 88 due to pneumonia and was buried at Blandford Cemetry situated in Petersburg, Virginia.