Hal K. Dawson (October 17, 1896 – February 17, 1987) was a prolific American character actor who, with his slight build and fussy, officious demeanor, became one of the most recognizable and ubiquitous supporting players of Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Dawson was a master of the bit part, appearing in hundreds of films and specializing in playing nervous clerks, milquetoast husbands, and various other easily flustered characters. He was a welcome presence in many A-list comedies, with memorable roles as the persnickety Harvey Allen in the classic screwball comedy Libeled Lady (1936) and as the stage manager Morty in the musical Sweethearts (1938).
His other notable film appearances include roles in Broadway Melody of 1940, the classic comedy Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948), and Superman and the Mole Men (1.951). He worked consistently in film and television for over three decades, cementing his legacy as a quintessential background player who could always be counted on for a laugh.
