Pat Buttram

Pat Buttram was a quintessential character actor whose distinctive gravelly voice and homespun humor made him a beloved figure in mid-20th century American entertainment. From radio to television, Buttram carved out a unique niche as a comedic sidekick and character performer who captured the essence of rural American wit.

Early Life and Roots in Alabama

Born Maxwell Emmett Buttram on June 19, 1915, in Addison, Alabama, Pat was the son of a Methodist minister, Wilson McDaniel Buttram. Growing up in a small-town Southern environment would later inform his comedic persona and storytelling style. As a young man, Buttram initially pursued education with thoughts of following his father into ministry, studying at Birmingham-Southern College. However, the stage and microphone would prove to be his true calling. Buttram's early performances in college plays and local radio stations demonstrated his natural comedic talents and laid the groundwork for his future career. His distinctive voice, which has been described as sounding "like a handful of gravel thrown in a Mix-Master," would become his trademark.

Breaking into Radio and Entertainment

Buttram's professional breakthrough came through radio broadcasting. He became a regular on various radio programs, eventually developing his own show on CBS. His big opportunity arrived when he was picked up by Gene Autry, the legendary singing cowboy, after a brief unsuccessful stint with Will Rogers. With Autry, Buttram found his perfect professional partnership. He co-starred in more than 40 films and over 100 television show episodes. From 1950 to 1955, he appeared in The Gene Autry Show, playing various characters and becoming a familiar voice to audiences across America.

Television and Broader Entertainment Career

While radio was his initial medium, Buttram seamlessly transitioned to television. His most iconic role was as Mr. Eustace Haney in the beloved sitcom Green Acres, which ran from 1965 to 1971. During this period, he became a staple of rural comedy, appearing in multiple shows like Petticoat Junction and The Real McCoys. Buttram was also a prolific voice actor, lending his distinctive voice to numerous animated features. He voiced characters in films like The Aristocats, Robin Hood, and The Fox and the Hound. His voice work extended to television animation, including roles in Garfield and Friends and Tiny Toon Adventures.

Legacy and Personal Life

Beyond entertainment, Buttram was known for his sharp political wit. A staunch Republican, he was known for helping politicians like Ronald Reagan "spice up" speeches with political quips. His humor was deeply rooted in his Alabama background, often poking fun at political posturing. Buttram was married twice, first to Dorothy McFadden from 1936 to 1946, and then to actress Sheila Ryan from 1952 until her death in 1975. He retired to his native Alabama in 1980 but continued making occasional appearances. Pat Buttram passed away on January 8, 1994, from kidney failure, leaving behind a legacy of humor that captured the spirit of mid-20th century American entertainment. In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1988.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• Gene Autry's Melody Ranch (Various years)
• Various CBS radio programs

Television

• The Gene Autry Show (1950-1955) - Multiple characters
• Green Acres (1965-1971) - Mr. Haney
• Petticoat Junction (1966-1969)
• The Real McCoys (1961-1963)

Film

• The Strawberry Roan (1948)
• The Aristocats (1970) - Voice of Napoleon
• Robin Hood (1973) - Voice of Sheriff of Nottingham
• Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988)

Voice Acting

• The Fox and the Hound (1981)
• Garfield and Friends (1989-1991)
• Tiny Toon Adventures (1991)