Brad Dexter
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Brad Dexter (born Veljko Šošo) (April 9, 1917 – December 12, 2002) was a Serbian-American actor, best known for his role as Harry Luck in The Magnificent Seven. He was born in Goldfield, Nevada of Serbian parentage. Burly, dark and handsome, Brad Dexter was usually given supporting roles of a rugged character. Early in his acting career, he went by the name of Barry Mitchell.
After having a stint as an amateur boxer, Dexter attended the Pasadena Playhouse where he studied theatre. During World War II he was enlisted for military service. His career in Hollywood spanned over four decades. Other films Dexter appeared in include Last Train from Gun Hill, Kings of the Sun, and Johnny Cool.
Dexter's relationship with singer and actor Frank Sinatra began in 1964 when he saved him from drowning. Sinatra was swimming at the beach while on location and began to be pulled into the undertow along with his female co-star. Dexter immediately sprang to his aid and was able to save them both. He was awarded by the Red Cross for his heroism. Dexter appeared in a few movies with Sinatra, including Von Ryan's Express as Sgt. Bostick and None But the Brave. The two later had a falling out and Dexter complained of Sinatra's pettiness and the fact that he never thanked him or gave him credit for saving him.
Dexter helped produce Skag with fellow American-Serb actor Karl Malden.
He died in Rancho Mirage, California from emphysema.
