Sam Buffington - Actor Profile

Sam Buffington

Acting
Updated: Apr 12, 2026
9Total Films
6.7 Highest Rated
Born: Oct 12, 1931
Birth Place: Swansea, Massachusetts, USA

About Sam Buffington

Sam Buffington (October 12, 1931 – May 15, 1960) was an American actor whose short career included performances on stage, radio, film, and television. He was the star of the CBS radio series Luke Slaughter of Tombstone during 1958 and was one of three regular cast members on the Whispering Smith television series. While Buffington's wife Pat was in Palm Springs, California, he wrote a note to her, locked himself in the bathroom, sealed air passages under the door and window, and turned on a gas jet. When she returned home on Sunday evening, May 15, 1960, she had to break-in the bathroom door. Buffington was dead; his note apologized to her for not being able to support her, and requested cremation. Buffington's friends expressed surprise at the note, since he had made over $20,000 the year before and had good career prospects

Sam Buffington Movies & Career Overview

The filmography of Sam Buffington reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 9 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.

Dominant Genre

A large portion of Sam Buffington's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.

Success Ratio

Approximately 33% of Sam Buffington's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.

One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Light in the Forest, which stands out as a key performance.

Advertisement

Best Sam Buffington Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Sam Buffington's career based on audience ratings.

Full Filmography

Every movie Sam Buffington has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
1959 Blue Denim Abortionist Flop Similar →
1959 They Came to Cordura - Hit Similar →
1958 Unwed Mother John Pauley Flop Similar →
1958 The Light in the Forest George Owens Hit Similar →
1958 King Creole Dr. Martin Cabot (uncredited) Average Similar →
1958 Damn Citizen DeButts Flop Similar →
1958 The Brothers Karamazov Tipsy Merchant Hit Similar →
1958 The Rawhide Trail James Willard Flop Similar →
1957 Invasion of the Saucer-Men Col. Ambrose, USAF Flop Similar →

Sam Buffington - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Sam Buffington?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Sam Buffington is "The Light in the Forest" with a rating of 6.7/10.

How many movies has Sam Buffington acted in?

Sam Buffington has been featured in at least 9 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Sam Buffington?

Other notable films include "The Brothers Karamazov", "They Came to Cordura", and "King Creole".

Advertisement