Bob Crane
ActingAbout Bob Crane
Bob Crane (July 13, 1928 – June 29, 1978) as an American actor, drummer, radio personality, and disc jockey best known for starring as Colonel Robert Hogan in the CBS sitcom Hogan's Heroes from 1965 to 1971. Born Robert Edward Crane in Waterbury, Connecticut, he began drumming at age 11 and started his career in radio in Hornell, New York, before hosting a top-rated morning show in Los Angeles. Crane transitioned to acting in the early 1960s with guest roles on shows like The Twilight Zone, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Donna Reed Show, where he played Dr. Dave Kelsey for 62 episodes. His big break came with Hogan's Heroes, earning two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 1966 and 1967. Post-Hogan's Heroes, Crane appeared in films like Superdad (1973) and Gus (1976), guest-starred on shows such as Police Woman and The Love Boat, and briefly led The Bob Crane Show in 1975. He was found murdered on June 29, 1978, in Scottsdale, Arizona, in an unsolved case involving blunt force trauma.
Bob Crane Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Bob Crane reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 14 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Bob Crane's work falls within the Comedy genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 36% of Bob Crane's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Delphi Bureau: The Merchant of Death Assignment, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Bob Crane Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Bob Crane's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Bob Crane has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | The Last Laugh | Self | Hit | Similar → |
| 2003 | Murder in Scottsdale | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1990 | Death In Hollywood | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1976 | Gus | Pepper | Average | Similar → |
| 1975 | Mitzi & 100 Guys | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1973 | Superdad | Charlie McCready | Flop | Similar → |
| 1972 | The Delphi Bureau: The Merchant of Death Assignment | Charlie Taggert | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1972 | Patriotism | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1969 | Arsenic and Old Lace | Mortimer Brewster | Hit | Similar → |
| 1968 | The Wicked Dreams of Paula Schultz | Bill Mason | Flop | Similar → |
| 1965 | Bing Crosby Color Christmas Show | Self/Col. Hogan | Average | Similar → |
| 1964 | The New Interns | Drunken Prankster at Baby Shower (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1961 | Man-Trap | Ralph Turner | Average | Similar → |
| 1961 | Return to Peyton Place | Peter White (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
Bob Crane - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Bob Crane?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Bob Crane is "The Delphi Bureau: The Merchant of Death Assignment" with a rating of 9.0/10.
How many movies has Bob Crane acted in?
Bob Crane has been featured in at least 14 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Bob Crane?
Other notable films include "The Last Laugh", "Arsenic and Old Lace", and "Death In Hollywood".