American actor, writer and director, known primarily for his portrayal of sinister underworld types. From 1933 through 1951, he appeared in over 100 films, establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s most versatile character actors. His career spanned nine decades.
Born Max Goldsmith, he began acting in school plays. He went on to attend the City College of New York, and in 1930, he won a two-year scholarship to attend Eva Le Gallienne Company. He landed a film contract with Columbia Pictures and made his film debut in “White Woman,” 1933. With his scarred complexion, dark hair and sinister, brooding appearance, Lawrence began winning roles, primarily cast as the “heavy.” His range, however, was far greater, and he gave an exceptional performance as a bewildered mountain boy in “Shepherd of the Hills,” 1941.
After World War II, Lawrence was called before the House Un-American Activities Committee and grilled about his political leanings. Under pressure, he admitted he was a former member of the Communist Party and named other Party members. As a result, he was blacklisted and went to Europe. He continued his career there, but eventually he returned to the United States. In the 1960s, he began to direct low-budget films such as “Nightmare in the Sun,” 1964, while still acting. Lawrence’s ability to provide a recognizable on-screen menace kept him busy through the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s, and even during the ’80s and ’90s, he appeared in films such as “The Big Easy,” 1987 and “Ruby, “1992.
He was married to Fanya Foss, and they had two children.
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