Clifton Webb (born Webb Parmelee Hollenbeck; 1889-1966) was an American actor, dancer, and singer. After a long and successful theatrical career on Broadway, he achieved international fame in film later in life. His breakthrough role was that of the sophisticated and cynical critic Waldo Lydecker in the film noir *Laura* (1944), a performance that earned him his first Academy Award nomination. His career was characterized by elegant, intellectual, and often caustic characters. He received a second Academy Award nomination and won a Golden Globe Award for his role in *The Razor's Edge* (1946). However, his most iconic character became that of the highly efficient and sharp-tongued Lynn Belvedere in the comedy *Sitting Pretty* (1948), which earned him his third Academy Award nomination and spawned two successful sequels. His other significant works include *Cheaper by the Dozen* (1950) and *Titanic* (1953), consolidating his image as a versatile actor with great screen presence.