Mickey Shaughnessy

Mickey Shaughnessy
As Hunk Houghton in Jailhouse Rock (1957)
Born Joseph Michael Shaughnessy
(1920-08-05)August 5, 1920
New York City, New York, U.S.
Died July 23, 1985(1985-07-23) (aged 64)
Cape May Court House, New Jersey, U.S.
Occupation Actor
Years active 1952–85
Spouse(s) Sarah Shaughnessy (19??–1985; his death); 7 children

Joseph Michael Shaughnessy (August 5, 1920 – July 23, 1985) was an Irish American character actor and comedian who specialized in playing lovable, but not-too-bright lugs. He was known for roles such as the tough, experienced mentor of Elvis Presley's character in Jailhouse Rock and Maxi the punch-drunk boxer in Designing Woman (1957) opposite Gregory Peck.

The New York City-born Shaughnessy was a Golden Gloves boxer.[1]

Shaughnessy started out as a singer before becoming a comedian.[2] He served in World War II and appeared in a US Army revue called "Stars and Gripes".[2] After the war, a Columbia Pictures producer saw him performing on stage and offered him a screen test.[2] In addition to his film career, he also worked in radio and television and had a nightclub act.[1]

Later years/death

In his later years, Shaughnessy lived in Wildwood, New Jersey, and died at the age of 64 from lung cancer in nearby Cape May Court House.[2] He was survived by his wife Sarah, four daughters and three sons.

Complete filmography

Partial television credits

References

  1. 1 2 "Mickey Shaughnessy, Known for Comic Irish Movie, TV Roles, Dies". Los Angeles Times. July 27, 1985.
  2. 1 2 3 4 Peter W. Kaplan (January 26, 1985). "Mickey Shaughnessy Dead; Comedian and Movie Actor". The New York Times. Retrieved December 15, 2012.
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