About
Alan Walbridge Ladd (September 3, 1913 – January 29, 1964) was an American actor and producer known for his cool, understated screen presence and his defining roles in 1940s and 1950s film noir and Westerns. Standing 5 ft 6 in (168 cm), Ladd became famous for the contrast between his modest height and his commanding on‑screen persona, a combination studios often enhanced through camera techniques and staging. He was frequently paired with Veronica Lake, one of the few major actresses shorter than he was, and together they became one of Hollywood’s iconic noir duos. Born in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Ladd moved to North Hollywood as a child and worked various jobs before entering the film industry. After years of small roles — including an uncredited appearance in Citizen Kane — he achieved stardom with This Gun for Hire (1942). His quiet intensity and stoic charm resonated strongly with...
Known for
Citizen KaneMovie • 1941
ShaneMovie • 1953
Dead Men Don't Wear PlaidMovie • 1982
The Reluctant DragonMovie • 1941
Boy on a DolphinMovie • 1957
This Gun for HireMovie • 1942
My Favorite BrunetteMovie • 1947
The BadlandersMovie • 1958
The CarpetbaggersMovie • 1964
The Blue DahliaMovie • 1946
SaskatchewanMovie • 1954
Appointment with DangerMovie • 1950
The Proud RebelMovie • 1958
Red MountainMovie • 1951
Botany BayMovie • 1952
The Glass KeyMovie • 1942
The Big LandMovie • 1957
One Foot in HellMovie • 1960
Drum BeatMovie • 1954
BrandedMovie • 1950
The Great GatsbyMovie • 1949
Whispering SmithMovie • 1948
The Black CatMovie • 1941
The Man in the NetMovie • 1959