John Payne

John Howard Payne

John Howard Payne (May 23, 1912 – December 6, 1989) was an American actor whose career spanned film and television. He is primarily recognized for his work in film noir and musical films, as well as for his iconic role in the holiday classic "Miracle on 34th Street" and his starring role in the Western television series "The Restless Gun."

Early Life and Education

Born in Roanoke, Virginia, Payne's mother was a singer and his father a developer. He received his early education at Mercersburg Academy and Episcopal High School before attending Roanoke College. He later transferred to Columbia University in New York City, where he pursued studies in drama and voice at the Juilliard School. To support himself during this period, he engaged in various odd jobs, including professional wrestling and boxing under pseudonyms.

Acting Career

Payne began his professional acting career as a stage actor in 1934, appearing in road company productions and Broadway revues. His talent was recognized by a talent scout, leading to a film contract. He moved to Hollywood in 1936 and appeared in films such as "Dodsworth" and "Hats Off." He signed with Warner Bros. in 1938, featuring in films like "Garden of the Moon" and "Wings of the Navy," but sought a release due to dissatisfaction with his roles.

Moving to 20th Century Fox, Payne found more substantial opportunities, appearing in musicals like "Tin Pan Alley" and "Sun Valley Serenade," as well as dramas such as "Remember the Day." After serving in the military during World War II, he returned to Fox and starred in "The Dolly Sisters" and "Sentimental Journey." His most enduring film role came as attorney Fred Gailey in "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947), a critical and commercial success. Despite the film's triumph, Payne sought and obtained his release from Fox in 1947, aiming to pursue different types of roles.

Film Noir and Westerns

Following his departure from Fox, Payne shifted his focus to film noir, starring in Universal's "Larceny" and "The Saxon Charm," and United Artists' "The Crooked Way." He also became a prominent figure in Westerns and adventure films through Pine-Thomas Productions, appearing in "El Paso," "Tripoli," and "The Eagle and the Hawk." Payne's business acumen led him to insist on color filming and film rights that reverted to him, allowing him to profit from television rentals. He also took on independent productions, including the noir "Kansas City Confidential," in which he held a 25% ownership.

Television and Later Career

Payne achieved significant television success as the star of the NBC Western series "The Restless Gun" (1957–1959), portraying Vint Bonner, a gunfighter who preferred peaceful resolutions. His later career included directing the film "They Ran for Their Lives" (1968), appearing in revivals of the musical "Good News," and guest roles on "Gunsmoke" and "Columbo." In his later years, he amassed wealth through real estate investments.

Personal Life and Death

During World War II, Payne served as a flight instructor in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was married three times: to actress Anne Shirley (1937–1942), with whom he had a daughter, Julie Anne Payne; to actress Gloria DeHaven (1944–1950), with whom he had two children; and finally to Alexandra Beryl Curtis, with whom he remained until his death. In 1961, Payne was severely injured when struck by a car in New York City, an accident from which he made a remarkable recovery. A Republican, he supported conservative political candidates. John Payne died of congestive heart failure in Malibu, California, on December 6, 1989. He is honored with two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, for his contributions to motion pictures and television.