**Walter Brennan (1894-1974)** was a prolific American character actor, known for his ability to transform into a wide range of elderly characters, often well before his actual age. He holds the record for three Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor, won for *Come and Get It* (1936), *Kentucky* (1938), and *The Westerner* (1940), the latter alongside Gary Cooper.

His distinctive style included a raspy voice and a talent for portraying wise old-timers, rugged pioneers, farmers, lawmen, or loyal comedic sidekicks. Among his most memorable roles are Stumpy in Howard Hawks' *Rio Bravo* (1959), Pastor Rosier in *Sergeant York* (1941), and Old Man Clanton in *My Darling Clementine* (1946). His career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on classic cinema, particularly in the Western genre.