Barry Norton
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Barry Norton (born Alfredo Carlos Birabén; June 16, 1905 – August 24, 1956) was an Argentinian-American actor. He appeared in over 90 films, starting in silent films from 1925 until his death in 1956. He is perhaps best known for his role as Juan Harker in Universal Pictures' Spanish-language version of Drácula in 1931, the English language role of Jonathan Harker originated by David Manners. Arriving in Hollywood in the 1920s, Norton first appeared as
In the early 1930s, Norton could still get leading roles in major films. Major Hollywood studios started producing alternate-language versions of their prestige productions, and he became one of dozens of Latino actors needed. Drácula was one of these films, but Norton also appeared in Spanish-language versions of Paramount on Parade (1930), The Benson Murder Case (1930), and The Criminal Code (1931). In a few cases, he appeared in both versions of a film. Examples include Storm Over the Andes (Spanish version: Alas sobre El Chaco), The Sea Fiend (El diablo del Mar), and Captain Calamity (El capitan Tormenta), the latter film reuniting him with Lupita Tovar, his romantic interest from Dracula.
In addition to roles in Spanish-territory films, he had roles in numerous major films, usually playing sophisticated Europeans. With the decline in Spanish-language film production in Los Angeles, Norton's opportunities for leading roles became less and less frequent. Though he had a pleasing voice, his Argentine accent seemed incongruous with his appearance. According to some sources, he never mastered English very well. In 1933, he secured what would be his last important role, playing Jean Parker's Spanish fiancé in Frank Capra's Lady for a Day (1933). Although he would continue to work for another 15 years, Norton's last credited screen role would be Should Husbands Work? (1939). For the rest of his career, Norton continued to reside in Los Angeles and obtain small roles in films. Many films he appeared in are now considered to be classics.
Born
Jun 16, 1905
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Died
Aug 24, 1956
Known For
Acting
Movies
112 acting
0 crew
Popularity
0.7
Known For
Casablanca
1943
as Gambler at Rick's (uncredited)
To Catch a Thief
1955
as Frenchman (uncredited)
Strangers on a Train
1951
as Tennis Match Spectator (uncredited)
Around the World in 80 Days
1956
as Extra (uncredited)
A Star Is Born
1954
as Benefit Attendee (uncredited)
Written on the Wind
1956
as Courtroom Spectator (uncredited)
White Christmas
1954
as Carousel Club Diner (uncredited)
Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans
1927
as Ballroom Dancer / Kissing Couple (uncredited)
The Caine Mutiny
1954
as Ship's Officer (uncredited)
How to Marry a Millionaire
1953
as Plane Passenger (uncredited)
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