#11: He Breaks Through with The Petrified Forest in 1936 After Playing Duke Mantee on Stage and Film
In 1936, he achieved a major breakthrough when he appeared in the film The Petrified Forest. He had originally played the criminal Duke Mantee in the Broadway stage production, and actor Leslie Howard insisted that he be cast in the film version.

The role brought him significant attention in Hollywood. Playing the dangerous outlaw gave him a strong screen presence and demonstrated his ability to portray intense characters, helping move him from minor supporting parts toward more prominent film roles.
