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Roscoe Karns Filmography

ActorBORN 1891SAN BERNARDINO125 FILMS IN DB

RoscoeKarns

Known for Acting · It Happened One Night, His Girl Friday, Wings

125
FILMS IN DB
$1,131
TOTAL VALUE
52
PRICED
$22
AVG VALUE
DVD
BEST FORMAT
💎
RAREST RELEASE
Clarence
~$112 · DVD · 1937
📈
MOST VALUABLE
Man's Favorite Sport?
$21 · Est. market value

BIOGRAPHY

Roscoe Karns, an iconic figure in early American cinema, graced nearly 150 films throughout his prolific career from 1915 to 1964. His unique blend of cynical humor and rapid-fire delivery made him a favorite in comedies and crime dramas, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. Collectors often seek out his standout performance as Oscar Shapeley in the Oscar-winning classic It Happened One Night (1934), which showcases his comedic prowess. Another highly sought-after title is Twentieth Century (1934), where Karns delivers a memorable portrayal of the boozy press agent Owen O'Malley, a role that solidified his place in film history. Karns also made a significant impact on television, notably as Admiral Walter Shafer in the military sitcom Hennesey from 1959 to 1962. His final film, Man's Favorite Sport? (1964), marks the end of a career that left an indelible mark on the industry. For physical media collectors, Karns' films represent a fascinating blend of comedy, character acting, and the evolution of cinematic storytelling, making them prized additions to any collection.

HIGHEST VALUE RELEASES

FILMS BY DECADE

FULL FILMOGRAPHY

125 films
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What era did Roscoe Karns's acting career primarily span?

Roscoe Karns's acting career spanned from 1915 to 1964, with his most active decade being the 1930s.

What types of film genres did Roscoe Karns work in?

Roscoe Karns appeared in a wide range of genres including drama, comedy, romance, crime, adventure, and mystery.

Which film from the 1940s featured Roscoe Karns as the character Monahan?

Roscoe Karns played Monahan in the 1941 film Footsteps in the Dark.

In which 1930 film did Roscoe Karns play a character named Scott?

Roscoe Karns portrayed Scott in the 1930 film Man Trouble.

What role did Roscoe Karns play in the 1940 film They Drive by Night?

In They Drive by Night (1940), Roscoe Karns played the character Irish McGurn.