**Edward Arnold (1890-1956)** was an American actor and an iconic figure of Hollywood's Golden Age. Known as a versatile character actor, he specialized in roles of powerful and often ambiguous men. His imposing physical presence and authoritative voice made him ideal for portraying bankers, corrupt politicians, ruthless industrialists, and authoritative figures.

Among his most memorable roles are the corrupt Senator Jim Taylor (and not Payne, a common mistake) in *Mr. Smith Goes to Washington* (1939), the tycoon D.B. Norton in Frank Capra's *Meet John Doe* (1941), and the cynical lawyer Paul Madvig in the classic film noir *The Glass Key* (1942). Arnold demonstrated a remarkable ability to portray complex and often morally compromised characters. His career spanned over 150 films, leaving a distinctive mark on classic cinema.