Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, William Demarest was a prolific actor in movies and TV, making more than 140 films. Demarest started his acting career in vaudeville and made his way to Broadway. His most famous role was in _"My Three Sons" . He did not win. This was the first and only time Demarest was nominated for any Academy Award.
Brother of actor Rube Demarest.
Began his career in vaudeville.
Co-starred on NBC Radios "The Eddie Bracken Story".
Biography in: "Whos Who in Comedy" by Ronald L. Smith. Pg. 135. New York: Facts on File, 1992. ISBN 0816023387
A golf enthusiast, he died the same day and year as pro golfer Jimmy Demaret.
Former professional boxer.
Had a falling-out with actor/singer Al Jolson.
Hated to talk about his boxing career.
Played a character with the name Steve Martin in two movies The Jolson Story and Jolson Sings Again .
Interestingly, Mr. Demarest appeared in "The Jazz Singer" (albeit uncredited) starring Al Jolson and also appeared in the "The Jolson Story" (and later "Jolson Sings Again") which recounts (among other things) the making of "The Jazz Singer." He appears to be the only performer to have appeared in both movies. [Actually, Al Jolson is in both films. He plays himself in some long shots in "The Jolson Story".].
