Remembering the actor Sidney Blackmer
One of Blackmer’s most memorable performances came later in his career when he played Roman Castevet in Roman Polanski’s “Rosemary’s Baby”
Remembering the actor Sidney Blackmer
Sidney Alderman Blackmer was born on July 13, 1895, in Salisbury, North Carolina. Growing up in a small town, Blackmer developed an interest in acting at an early age, which led him to pursue a career in the performing arts.
Blackmer’s acting career began in the theater, where he first gained acting experience. His stage debut came in the early 1910s, and he quickly established himself as a talented performer. After serving in the United States Army during World War I, Blackmer returned to acting with renewed vigor.
In the 1920s, Blackmer transitioned to the burgeoning film industry, appearing in silent films and quickly making a name for himself. His strong screen presence and versatility allowed him to thrive during the transition from silent films to talkies.
Blackmer’s film career spanned several decades, with notable performances in a wide range of genres. He was particularly known for his roles in “Little Caesar” (1931) and “The Count of Monte Cristo” (1934). Blackmer often portrayed authority figures, villains, and historical characters, bringing depth and nuance to his roles.
One of Blackmer’s most memorable performances came later in his career when he played Roman Castevet in Roman Polanski’s “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968). His portrayal of the sinister yet charming neighbor in this horror classic remains a standout in his filmography.
In addition to his film work, Blackmer maintained a successful stage career. He won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his performance in “Come Back, Little Sheba” in 1950, further cementing his reputation as a distinguished actor.
Sidney Blackmer was married twice. His first marriage was to actress Lenore Ulric, which ended in divorce. He later married actress Suzanne Kaaren in 1943, and they remained together until his death. The couple had two sons, Jonathan and Brewster.
Blackmer was also known for his involvement in various social and political causes. He was an advocate for actors’ rights and served as a board member of the Screen Actors Guild. Additionally, Blackmer was active in his local community in North Carolina, where he remained connected throughout his life.
Sidney Blackmer passed away on October 6, 1973, at the age of 78. He died in New York City, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributions to both stage and screen.
Look back at Sidney Blackmer in his iconic role of Roman Castevet in the 1968 movie “Rosemary’s Baby”
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