Sorrell Booke was an American actor whose career spanned stage, screen, and television. Born in Buffalo, New York, in 1930, Booke's journey into acting began at a young age. He entertained patients in his
father's waiting room and started acting on radio at nine. His talent for impersonations won him a radio contest, setting the stage for a prolific career. Booke's life was marked by his dedication to the arts and his memorable roles, particularly as Boss Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard.
Early Life and Education
Sorrell Booke was born to Sol Booke, a physician, in Buffalo, New York. From a young age, he showed a flair for entertainment, amusing patients in his father's waiting room. His acting career began early, with radio performances at the age of nine. Booke was known for his impersonations, winning a contest for mimicking Adolf Hitler's voice. He regularly appeared on local radio stations WGR and WEBR.
Booke's academic achievements were notable. He attended Bennett High School, where he graduated as valedictorian in 1946. At just 16, he enrolled at Columbia University, performing in Shakespearean plays with the drama club. He graduated from Columbia at 19 and went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts from the Yale School of Drama. His time at Yale included starring in a stage production of Beethoven alongside Paul Newman.
Military Service and Early Career
After completing his education, Booke served in the United States Army during the Korean War as a counterintelligence officer for two years. Following his military service, he returned to acting, appearing off-Broadway in The White Devil and securing his first television role in the series Omnibus.
Booke made his Broadway debut in 1956 in Michael Redgrave's production of The Sleeping Prince. One of his early prominent roles was as Senator Billboard T. Rawkins in the 1960 revival of Finian's Rainbow. He also appeared in films such as Black Like Me, A Fine Madness, What's Up, Doc?, and Fail Safe.
Television Success and Legacy
Sorrell Booke's television career was extensive, with appearances in over 150 shows. He was featured in popular series like Gunsmoke, Cannon, Ironside, Route 66, Hawaii Five-O, and The Rockford Files. His most iconic role was as Boss Hogg in The Dukes of Hazzard, a character he portrayed with humor and flair.
Booke's portrayal of Boss Hogg made him a household name, and he continued to work as a voice actor in the 1980s and early 1990s. Despite his passing in 1994 from colorectal cancer, Sorrell Booke's legacy in the entertainment industry remains significant, remembered for his diverse roles and contributions to television and film.
