Joseph Calleia (1897-1975) was a prolific Maltese-American actor, who had a long and notable film career. Known as a versatile character actor, he was often cast as menacing gangsters or cunning criminals, leveraging his imposing presence, intense gaze, and raspy voice.

He was memorable in films such as *Algiers* (1938) as Slimane, Pepe le Moko's antagonist, or as the sinister Wilmer Cook in *The Maltese Falcon* (1941). However, Calleia also demonstrated a remarkable ability to portray more authoritative and sympathetic characters, such as policemen or law enforcement figures. Examples include Captain Vargas in Orson Welles' iconic *Touch of Evil* (1958) or Detective Obregon in *Gilda* (1946). His career is studded with over 50 films, where he consistently delivered solid and memorable performances in crucial supporting roles.