Bob Crane
ActingAbout Bob Crane
Bob Crane (July 13, 1928 – June 29, 1978) as an American actor, drummer, radio personality, and disc jockey best known for starring as Colonel Robert Hogan in the CBS sitcom Hogan's Heroes from 1965 to 1971. Born Robert Edward Crane in Waterbury, Connecticut, he began drumming at age 11 and started his career in radio in Hornell, New York, before hosting a top-rated morning show in Los Angeles. Crane transitioned to acting in the early 1960s with guest roles on shows like The Twilight Zone, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Donna Reed Show, where he played Dr. Dave Kelsey for 62 episodes. His big break came with Hogan's Heroes, earning two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 1966 and 1967. Post-Hogan's Heroes, Crane appeared in films like Superdad (1973) and Gus (1976), guest-starred on shows such as Police Woman and The Love Boat, and briefly led The Bob Crane Show in 1975. He was found murdered on June 29, 1978, in Scottsdale, Arizona, in an unsolved case involving blunt force trauma.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Bob Crane reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 13 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Comedy
The majority of Bob Crane's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 23% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Bob Crane remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Arsenic and Old Lace, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Bob Crane Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Bob Crane's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Bob Crane.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | The Last Laugh | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2003 | Murder in Scottsdale | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1976 | Gus | Pepper | Average | Similar → |
| 1975 | Mitzi & 100 Guys | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1973 | Superdad | Charlie McCready | Flop | Similar → |
| 1972 | The Delphi Bureau: The Merchant of Death Assignment | Charlie Taggert | Flop | Similar → |
| 1972 | Patriotism | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1969 | Arsenic and Old Lace | Mortimer Brewster | Hit | Similar → |
| 1968 | The Wicked Dreams of Paula Schultz | Bill Mason | Flop | Similar → |
| 1965 | Bing Crosby Color Christmas Show | Self/Col. Hogan | Average | Similar → |
| 1964 | The New Interns | Drunken Prankster at Baby Shower (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1961 | Man-Trap | Ralph Turner | Average | Similar → |
| 1961 | Return to Peyton Place | Peter White | Hit | Similar → |
Bob Crane - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Bob Crane?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Bob Crane is "Arsenic and Old Lace" with a rating of 7.0/10.
How many movies has Bob Crane acted in?
Bob Crane has been featured in at least 13 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Bob Crane?
Other notable films include "The Last Laugh", "Return to Peyton Place", and "Bing Crosby Color Christmas Show".