Overview

George Raft (born George Ranft; September 26, 1901 – November 24, 1980) was an American performer whose career moved from nightclub dancing to motion-picture stardom. He became strongly associated with the screen image of the urbane gangster, yet his range included musical numbers, romantic leads and later character parts. Raft's public persona combined a polished dancer's poise with a tough-guy demeanor that studios exploited during the 1930s and 1940s.

Early life and stage work

Raft was born in New York City and first gained experience in nightclubs, vaudeville-style revues and popular dance halls. He worked as a professional dancer in the era when on-stage partners and specialty numbers could lead to film attention. His trained footwork and relaxed stage presence helped him transition into cinema at the start of Hollywood's sound era.

Film career and signature roles

Raft rose to prominence with tough, charismatic parts in crime dramas and melodramas. His breakthrough came in the early 1930s, and he is widely remembered for his role in the notorious 1932 gangster film Scarface. Other well-known pictures include Bolero (a film emphasizing his dancing), Each Dawn I Die, and They Drive by Night. Late in his career he made a memorable cameo in the comedy directed by Billy Wilder, Some Like It Hot.

Screen persona and public reputation

Raft cultivated a laconic, understated manner on screen — a contrast to more florid portrayals of criminals — often suggesting restraint and streetwise authority. Off screen, his friendships and acquaintances with figures from the criminal underworld became a recurring aspect of his image and affected both the roles he was offered and his relationship with studios. Over time, as tastes in filmmaking changed, Raft shifted into supporting and cameo roles.

Notable films

  • Scarface (1932)
  • Bolero (1934)
  • Each Dawn I Die (1939)
  • They Drive by Night (1940)
  • Some Like It Hot (1959) — cameo appearance

Later years and legacy

Raft continued to work in film and television in later decades, often as a supporting actor. He died in Los Angeles, California, on November 24, 1980; the cause of death was reported as leukemia. Today he is remembered both for his distinctive combination of dancerly grace and gangster cool and for being one of the era's emblematic tough-guy stars. Film historians note his influence on the depiction of understated, stylish criminals in American cinema.