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When he wasn't acting on Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., Frank Sutton was a secret scholar
"Exercising my mind through in-depth exploration of various art forms strengthens me as a performer," said Sutton.
Those on television often get a reputation for being a bit dimwitted. It's a rumor that hardly has any merit; Any actor worth their salt knows that you need a good head on your shoulders to become a good performer.
Strangely enough, one of the most intelligent actors on television was acting on one of the silliest shows.
Frank Sutton is best known for playing Vince Carter in the hit television series, Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C. Although the character is remembered for his angry outbursts and rage-fueled tirades, off-screen, Sutton was an academic.
During an interview with the Ledger-Enquirer, Sutton explained that he had a real thirst for learning. "As far back as I can remember, I've felt starved for knowledge," said Sutton.
According to the article, Sutton read four or five books per month and held more than 300 volumes in his personal library.
But while Sutton's academic endeavors were impressive, the actor took pains to hide away this side of him, even expressing a bit of embarrassment. "After all, I'm recognized as a song-and-dance comic or as Jim's straight man," said Sutton.
Still, Sutton argued that strengthening his mind wasn't just healthy for his growth as an individual; it also helped strengthen his acting abilities.
"Exercising my mind through in-depth exploration of various art forms strengthens me as a performer - gives me more to work with and makes my characterizations more interesting to the audience."
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5 Comments
Two fine actors taken so young 😢
that was treating Marines, the guys loved him. If I recall correctly that was in 1969.
The above citation of 300 books is wrong, he had thousands of books, many valuable
and rare. When he died there was many a mention of his personal library as people
were surprised by that.
They had thought of him as the not that bright Sgt. Carter instead of the actor Frank Sutton.
Dan Blocker had the same problem, he was an intellectual who had once taught at a
college,
He served in World War II with the rank of Sgt.
