Robert Gist (Chicago, October 14, 1917 – Los Angeles, May 21, 1998) was an American actor and director. He began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film and television. As a performer, he is known for supporting roles in notable films such as Alfred Hitchcock's *Strangers on a Train* (1951) and *Operation Petticoat* (1959). Beginning in the late 1950s, his career focused primarily on television directing, becoming one of the most prolific and sought-after professionals on the small screen. His directing credits include episodes for iconic series such as *Gunsmoke*, *Peter Gunn*, *The Twilight Zone*, and the "Miri" episode of the original *Star Trek* series. He also directed the feature film *An Angel Levine* (1970). Although he did not receive major awards, Gist is recognized for his fundamental contribution to the development of American television during its golden age, and he also established himself as a respected acting coach.