Gene Lockhart (1891-1957) was a prolific American character actor, remembered for his long and versatile film career, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for *Algiers* (1938).

Specializing in supporting roles, Lockhart excelled at portraying a wide range of characters. Often cast as authoritative yet ambiguous figures, such as shrewd businessmen, judges, or criminals with a respectable façade. His acting was characterized by a restrained but impactful presence, capable of conveying subtle nuances of nervousness, weakness, or hidden malevolence.

Among his most memorable roles are Commissioner Slimane in *Algiers*, the dishonest reporter in *His Girl Friday* (1940), the suspicious Judge Henry Harper in *Miracle on 34th Street* (1947), and political rival Stephen A. Douglas in *Abe Lincoln in Illinois* (1940). His reliability made him a familiar and appreciated face in classic American cinema.