**James Best (1926-2015)** was a prolific American actor whose career spanned over six decades in film and television. Although universally recognized for his role as Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane in the TV series "The Dukes of Hazzard," Best built a remarkable filmography rich in character roles.

Specializing in Westerns and dramas, he portrayed characters ranging from the "good guy" to the subtle villain, from the comedic authority figure to more complex and tormented individuals. Among his most notable films are classics such as *The Caine Mutiny* (1954), Budd Boetticher's Western *Ride Lonesome* (1959), and collaborations with director Samuel Fuller in *Shock Corridor* (1963) and *The Naked Kiss* (1964). He also had a significant role in the acclaimed drama *Sounder* (1972). His style was characterized by a naturalness and versatility that made him memorable in every appearance.