James Noble was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned over five decades. He was best known for his work in television, particularly for his portrayal of Governor Eugene X. Gatling on the popular sitcom Benson. Noble’s career extended across multiple genres, including comedy, drama, and even film, where his refined presence and ability to portray authority figures made him a favorite among both producers and audiences.
This article explores his early life, breakthrough in television, significant roles in both movies and TV shows, and his lasting legacy in Hollywood.
Early Life and Education
James Wilkes Noble was born on March 5, 1922, in Dallas, Texas. Growing up in the midst of the Great Depression, Noble developed a passion for the arts at an early age. However, due to the economic challenges of the time, he also developed an appreciation for hard work and perseverance. Noble initially pursued a different path by enrolling in engineering courses at Southern Methodist University in Texas. Yet, the pull of the theater eventually won him over.
He honed his craft in acting and studied at the prestigious Actors Studio in New York City, where he trained under the famous Lee Strasberg. His time at the Actors Studio solidified his desire to become an actor, providing him with the tools to excel in both stage and screen performances. During World War II, Noble served as an engineering officer in the United States Navy, which briefly interrupted his academic and acting pursuits. Nevertheless, his return to acting after the war would shape the trajectory of his career.
Broadway Beginnings
Before making a significant impact in television and film, James Noble cut his teeth in the theater. His theatrical journey began on Broadway, where he showcased his considerable talent in a series of performances. One of his most notable roles was as John Hancock in the 1969 production of 1776, a musical about the signing of the Declaration of Independence. His portrayal of Hancock, a character with both political and comedic elements, was lauded by critics and audiences alike.
The success of 1776 led to his role in the 1972 film adaptation of the musical, where he reprised his role as Hancock. While his performance was notable, his work on stage had already garnered him recognition as a versatile actor who could handle both dramatic and comedic roles with ease. In addition to 1776, Noble’s theater career included a variety of performances across different genres, helping him refine his acting skills and adapt to diverse roles.
Breakthrough Role: Benson (1979–1986)
While James Noble had been acting on stage and appearing in various television shows, it was his role in the television series Benson that cemented his place in the public consciousness. Premiering in 1979, Benson was a spinoff of the popular series Soap, a satirical sitcom that parodied the format of soap operas. The show starred Robert Guillaume as Benson DuBois, a butler working in the mansion of Governor Eugene X. Gatling, a role that James Noble made iconic.
In Benson, Noble played Governor Eugene X. Gatling, a well-meaning but often out-of-touch politician who was frequently oblivious to the goings-on in his administration. His character’s ineptitude provided a sharp contrast to Robert Guillaume’s Benson, who was the competent and politically savvy foil to Gatling’s cluelessness. This dynamic between the two characters became the core of the series, and Noble’s performance was widely praised for its blend of sincerity and humor.
Noble’s portrayal of Governor Gatling won him a loyal following, and the role became one of his most recognizable. His work on Benson spanned a total of seven seasons, from 1979 to 1986. The show’s success was largely attributed to the chemistry between Guillaume and Noble, and it remains a beloved classic in television history.
Notable Television Appearances
Following his success in Benson, James Noble continued to build his television career with a wide variety of guest appearances and recurring roles in other television series. His ability to embody a wide range of characters, from authoritative figures to comedic sidekicks, kept him in high demand throughout the 1980s and beyond.
The Love Boat (1977-1986)
Noble appeared in multiple episodes of the beloved television series The Love Boat. This show, which followed the romantic and comedic antics aboard a luxury cruise liner, featured a rotating cast of guest stars. Noble’s charming and sometimes aloof persona made him a perfect fit for the series, where he often played wealthy or dignified passengers.
Fantasy Island (1977-1984)
Another iconic TV series in which Noble made guest appearances was Fantasy Island. In this show, hosted by the mysterious Mr. Roarke (played by Ricardo Montalban), guests would have their fantasies come to life, often with unexpected consequences. Noble appeared in a few episodes, playing characters who were often caught in the fantasy’s intricate twists and turns.
The Love Boat, McCloud, Starsky & Hutch (1970s-1980s)
James Noble made multiple guest appearances on a variety of popular TV shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His ability to slip into different types of roles made him a favorite among producers. His recurring appearances on McCloud, Starsky & Hutch, and The Love Boat helped solidify his reputation as a dependable character actor capable of bringing both comedy and drama to each role.
Perfect Strangers (1986-1993)
In Perfect Strangers, a sitcom about two cousins living together in Chicago, James Noble played the father of one of the lead characters, Larry Appleton. His role was more grounded than his previous comedic performances, yet he still brought a touch of warmth and humor to the series.
His ability to seamlessly integrate into various ensemble casts showcased his adaptability and allowed him to work in different genres, ranging from comedies to police procedurals.
Film Career A Diverse Portfolio
Though James Noble was most well-known for his work on television, he also enjoyed a successful career in film. While he was often cast in supporting roles, his work in movies added another dimension to his acting abilities, allowing him to showcase his versatility in different genres.
10 (1979)
One of the most iconic films in which James Noble appeared was 10, a romantic comedy starring Dudley Moore and Julie Andrews. The film, which focused on a middle-aged man’s romantic entanglements with a younger woman, was a commercial and critical success. Noble played Dr. Miles, a supporting character who provides comic relief. While his role was relatively small, his presence in the film helped elevate the ensemble cast.
Being There (1979)
Noble also appeared in Being There, a satirical film starring Peter Sellers. The film follows Chance, a simple-minded gardener who becomes a media sensation after an encounter with the president of the United States. Noble played Kaufman, the president’s chief of staff, and his performance added to the film’s sharp political commentary. Noble’s role in Being There demonstrated his ability to hold his own in a film alongside comedic heavyweights like Sellers, cementing his status as a versatile actor.
Airplane II The Sequel (1982)
Another comedic project that James Noble took part in was Airplane II: The Sequel, a parody of disaster films. Noble played Father O’Flanagan in this slapstick comedy. The film, a follow-up to the successful 1980 film Airplane!, featured a slew of absurd and hilarious moments, and Noble’s performance fit perfectly into the film’s zany humor.
Chances Are (1989)
In the romantic comedy Chances Are, Noble played Dr. Bailey, a supporting character in the story of a man who is reincarnated and finds himself in a love triangle. The film, which stars Robert Downey Jr. and Cybill Shepherd, allowed Noble to add his charm and wit to a more lighthearted role.
Later Years and Legacy
In the years following his work on Benson, James Noble continued to appear in a variety of television and film projects. However, his roles became less frequent as he entered retirement. Even so, his legacy as a skilled actor remained intact, and his contributions to the entertainment industry were widely respected.
Noble passed away on March 28, 2016, at the age of 94, in Norwalk, Connecticut. His death was the result of complications from a stroke, but his career left an enduring impact on the world of television and film. He is remembered as one of the finest character actors of his generation, and his roles continue to be celebrated by fans of classic television and cinema.
Conclusion:
James Noble’s legacy in film and television is marked by his incredible range, adaptability, and charm. Whether portraying a clueless governor in Benson, a supportive father in Perfect Strangers, or a comedic supporting role in films like Airplane II: The Sequel, Noble consistently brought his characters to life with authenticity and depth. His work transcends time, as his performances continue to resonate with audiences today.
James Noble’s remarkable career in both television and film proves that talent and versatility can stand the test of time. He remains a beloved figure in Hollywood’s history, whose legacy continues to inspire actors and entertain audiences for generations to come.