Tracy, Lee, 1898-1968

American actor in radio, theater, film, and television.

Lee Tracy (4/14/1898 - 10/18/1968) was an American actor in radio, theater, film and television. He was born William Lee Tracy in Atlanta, GA, and died in Santa Monica, CA. He was married to actress Helen Thomas.

Before his acting career began, Tracy worked for a brief time as an U.S. Treasury Agent. His show business career started with his work in vaudeville. He made his New York City debut as Joe in The Show-off (2/5/1924), and his London debut succeeding Raymond Massey in the role of Harry Van in Idiot's Delight . His theatrical career includes work in: The Book of Charm ; Oh, Promise Me ; Bright Star ; Metropole ; Mr. Barry's Etchings, and Every Man for Himself .

Tracy made his film debut in Big Time (1929). His film career includes work in such films as: Doctor X ; Blessed Event ; The Half Naked Truth ; Bombshell ; and The Best Man .

Tracy played Mr. Malone in the television series The Amazing Mr. Malone ; the title role in the private eye series, Martin Kane ; and Lee Cochrane in the NY Confidential television series.

Lee Tracy received the New York Critics Association's best actor award in 1929 for his performance as Roy Lane in the theater production of Broadway, and was nominated for a Tony Award in 1960 for his performance as ex-President Arthur Hockstader in The Best Man .

He performed in various radio programs such as Hall of Fame ; Hollywood Hotel ; Lux Radio Theater, and Shell Chateau .