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Buddy Swan

Acting
Freshness: Jan 15, 2026
13Total Films
8.0 Highest Rated
Born: Oct 24, 1929

About Buddy Swan

Paul "Buddy" Swan (October 24, 1929 – March 21, 1993) (also credited as Buddy Swann) was an American child actor, best known for playing the title character of the 1941 film Citizen Kane as an eight-year-old boy. He also appeared in the horror film The Ape, the horror comedy Scared Stiff, and the Academy-Award nominated film The Fighting Sullivans, playing one of the Sullivan brothers in their youth. Swan also appeared as a young actor in Broadway plays in 1942, including Mr. Sycamore.

Career Statistics & Market Influence

Analyzing the cinematic journey of Buddy Swan reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 13 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.

Genre Dominance: Comedy

The majority of Buddy Swan's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.

The "Box Office" Signature

With a 8% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Buddy Swan remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Citizen Kane, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.

Best Buddy Swan Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Buddy Swan's career based on audience ratings.

Complete Filmography & Success Status

Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Buddy Swan.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
1950 Destination Murder Arthur, Blue Streak Messenger Flop Similar →
1950 Military Academy with That Tenth Avenue Gang Williams (uncredited) Average Similar →
1949 Shockproof Teenage Boy (Uncredited) Average Similar →
1946 Gallant Journey Sharkey (uncredited) Average Similar →
1946 Centennial Summer Dudley Rogers Average Similar →
1945 Scared Stiff Oliver Waldeck Flop Similar →
1945 The Horn Blows at Midnight Kid (uncredited) Average Similar →
1944 Strange Affair Newsboy (Uncredited) Average Similar →
1944 The Soul of a Monster Second Newsboy (uncredited) Flop Similar →
1944 The Fighting Sullivans George, as a child (uncredited) Average Similar →
1941 Citizen Kane Young Charles Foster Kane Super Hit Similar →
1940 The Ape Willie Brill Flop Similar →
1940 Haunted House Junior Henshaw Flop Similar →

Buddy Swan - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Buddy Swan?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Buddy Swan is "Citizen Kane" with a rating of 8.0/10.

How many movies has Buddy Swan acted in?

Buddy Swan has been featured in at least 13 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Buddy Swan?

Other notable films include "Shockproof", "Strange Affair", and "Gallant Journey".