Skip to main content
WatchRoster

Jim Backus Filmography

ActorBORN 1913CLEVELAND143 FILMS IN DB

JimBackus

Known for Acting · Destination Magoo, Los Angeles Plays Itself, Magoo Goes Overboard

143
FILMS IN DB
$1,472
TOTAL VALUE
53
PRICED
$28
AVG VALUE
DVD
BEST FORMAT
💎
RAREST RELEASE
Ice Palace
~$100 · DVD · 1960
📈
MOST VALUABLE
Los Angeles Plays Itself
$75 · Est. market value

BIOGRAPHY

Jim Backus, a familiar face and voice across radio, television, and film, holds a special place in the hearts of physical media collectors. While perhaps best known for his iconic role as Thurston Howell III on *Gilligan's Island*, his filmography offers much more for enthusiasts to explore, particularly his dramatic turn as James Dean's father, Frank Stark, in Nicholas Ray's classic *Rebel Without a Cause* (1955). This pivotal performance showcases Backus's range beyond comedic roles and remains a must-have for any serious film collector, often sought after on Blu-ray or 4K for its stunning cinematography. Collectors also appreciate his distinctive voice work, famously bringing the cartoon character Mr. Magoo to life, a character whose various animated adventures have seen numerous VHS and DVD releases over the decades. Though not a critical darling, his later made-for-TV movie *The Harlem Globetrotters on Gilligan's Island* (1981) remains a campy nostalgic favorite, often picked up by collectors completing their *Gilligan's Island* physical media sets. Backus's diverse career ensures his presence on many a WatchRoster collection.

HIGHEST VALUE RELEASES

FILMS BY DECADE

FULL FILMOGRAPHY

143 films
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What era does Jim Backus's filmography cover?

Jim Backus's filmography spans from 1948 to 2005, covering over five decades of acting work.

What genres did Jim Backus frequently work in?

Jim Backus appeared in a variety of genres including comedy, animation, drama, family, romance, and TV movies.

What is one of Jim Backus's most notable TV roles?

Jim Backus is well known for playing Thurston Howell III in the TV movie The Harlem Globetrotters on Gilligan's Island (1981).

In which decade was Jim Backus most active in his film career?

Jim Backus was most active in the 1950s, with many notable films released during that decade.

On which physical media formats can you find Jim Backus's films?

Jim Backus's films are available on betamax, blu-ray, dvd, laserdisc, vhs, and other physical media formats.