Born in New York City. The son of a well-known Broadway actor and actress, he appeared in silents as a child, then went on the stage in his teens and was a seasoned player by the time he made his adult film debut in ALIBI (1929), a performance that earned him an Academy Award nomination. Somewhat resembling the Dick Tracy cartoon character, jutting jaw, hooked nose, and all, he typically played a determined, two-fisted hero. He portrayed Boston Blackie in 13 of the series' action films (1941-48). He died of an overdose of barbiturates shortly after completing a comeback appearance in THE GREAT WHITE HOPE (1970).    Nominated for Actor 1928-29: ALIBI 1 nomination