Berry Kroeger was a renowned American actor who made a lasting impact in the world of film, television, and stage. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Kroeger's acting career began on radio, where he worked as an announcer on Suspense and an actor, playing the iconic role of The Falcon in the radio series.
Kroeger's talent and versatility led him to become a regular on the radio daytime drama Young Doctor Malone, playing the role of Sam Williams. His breakthrough in films came in 1948 with his role in The Iron Curtain, directed by William Wellman, whom he had met while performing on Broadway.
Kroeger's specialization in playing slimy bad guys in films like Act of Violence (1948) and The Iron Curtain (1948) showcased his exceptional acting skills. He also excelled in playing a crooked lawyer in Cry of the City (1948) and a heavy in Joseph H. Lewis' cult crime classic, Gun Crazy (1949).
Throughout his career, Kroeger's flair for decadent leering and evil scowls led to his being cast in a range of "schlock fare" films, including 1966's Chamber of Horrors and 1971's The Incredible Two-Headed Transplant. He even appeared in a small role as a village elder in the 1974 comedy classic, Young Frankenstein.
Kroeger's extensive television credits include guest starring in seven episodes of Perry Mason, as well as appearances in shows such as Hawaiian Eye, Get Smart, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E.. His last major film role was in 1977's The Demon Seed.
On Broadway, Kroeger portrayed the High Lama in the ill-fated 1956 musical adaptation of Lost Horizon, entitled Shangri-La.
Sadly, Berry Kroeger passed away on January 4, 1991, due to kidney failure.
