**Charley Grapewin (1869-1956)** was an American character actor whose career spanned over sixty years, transitioning from vaudeville to theater and finally to film.

He became a familiar face in Hollywood thanks to his ability to portray wise, kindly, or sometimes grumpy old men, often from rural backgrounds. His most celebrated role is that of Grampa Joad in John Ford's *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940), a moving performance that defined his image.

Before that, he had already made his mark as Uncle Henry in *The Wizard of Oz* (1939). Other significant roles include Jeeter Lester in *Tobacco Road* (1941) and supporting roles in films such as *The Petrified Forest* (1936). His wrinkled face and distinctive voice made him an icon of classic cinema.