Robert Keith was a talented and versatile actor who appeared in dozens of films and stage plays in the 20th century. He was the father of Brian Keith, a popular TV star who also died tragically. But what caused Robert Keith’s death and how did it affect his family and career? Here is a brief overview of his life and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Robert Keith was born as Rolland Keith Richey on February 10, 1898 in Fowler, Indiana. He joined a stock company as a teenager and developed skills as a writer and actor. He appeared in many plays around the country and on Broadway, where he gained recognition for his roles in Yellow Jack, The Children’s Hour, and Mr. Roberts.
He also ventured into film work, writing dialogues for some movies and acting in several others. He made his film debut in The Other Kind of Love in 1924, and later appeared in notable films such as Abraham Lincoln, Boomerang!, The Wild One, Guys and Dolls, and Written on the Wind.
Personal Life and Relationships
Robert Keith had a turbulent personal life, marked by four marriages and two divorces. His first wife was Laura Corinne Jackson, whom he married in 1917 and divorced soon after. His second wife was Helena Shipman, a stage actress with whom he had his son Brian Keith in 1921. They divorced in 1926.
His third wife was Peg Entwistle, another actress who was ten years younger than him. They married in 1927 and divorced in 1929, with Entwistle accusing him of abuse and domestic cruelty. She also claimed that he lied to her about being married before. Entwistle later became famous for committing suicide by jumping from the letter H of the Hollywood sign in 1932.
His fourth and final wife was Dorothy Tierney, whom he married secretly in 1930. They met while both were acting in different theaters in San Francisco. They remained together until his death in 1966.
Cause of Death
Robert Keith died on December 22, 1966 at the age of 68 in Los Angeles, California. His cause of death was not disclosed to the public, but according to IMDb, he died of an undisclosed illness. He was buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City.
His death was mourned by many of his friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry, including Ronald Reagan, Edward G. Robinson, and James Cagney, who were among his honorary pallbearers at his funeral.
Legacy
Robert Keith left behind a rich legacy of work as an actor and writer, spanning over four decades. He was known for his versatility and professionalism, as well as his distinctive voice and presence. He played a variety of characters, from fathers to gangsters to cops to doctors.
He also influenced his son Brian Keith, who followed his footsteps into acting and became a successful TV star. Brian Keith starred in shows such as Family Affair, The Brian Keith Show, and Hardcastle and McCormick. He also suffered from depression and committed suicide in 1997, shortly after being diagnosed with lung cancer and losing his daughter to suicide.
Robert Keith is remembered as one of the forgotten stars of Hollywood’s golden age, who deserves more recognition for his contributions to the art of cinema and theater.
According to Wikipedia, Robert Keith’s cause of death is not mentioned on his page. However, according to Cinemorgue Wiki, he died of a heart attack in prison while filming an episode of The Alfred Hitchcock Hour titled Final Escape in 1964. This episode aired two years after his death.
It is unclear which source is more accurate or reliable, as both are based on user-generated content. However, it is possible that both are true, as he could have died of a heart attack caused by an undisclosed illness.
Regardless of the exact cause of his death, Robert Keith’s life story is a fascinating and tragic one that deserves more attention from fans and historians alike.
