Hank Worden was born on July 23, 1901, in Rolfe, Iowa. He was raised on a cattle ranch in Montana, where he developed a love for horses and the Western way of life. As a young man, he honed his riding skills and eventually started touring the country as a rodeo rider, showcasing his talent and fearlessness in the rodeo arena.
Worden's rodeo career came to a sudden halt when he broke his neck after falling off a horse in his 20s. Despite the injury, he refused to give up on his passion for riding, brushing off the pain as just a sore neck. This determination and resilience would become a defining characteristic of Worden's persona both on and off the screen.
Worden's life took a dramatic turn when he was discovered by a talent scout at a rodeo in Madison Square Garden, alongside fellow cowboy Tex Ritter. The offer to join the Broadway production of "Green Grow the Lilacs" opened the door to Hollywood for Worden, where he would establish himself as a prominent character actor in Western films.
Worden's talent and unique presence caught the attention of legendary director John Ford, who cast him in small but memorable roles in a dozen classic Westerns. Worden's collaboration with Ford helped him gain recognition and solidify his place in the industry as a versatile and reliable character actor.
Worden's on-screen partnership with John Wayne was a defining aspect of his career. The two actors appeared in a total of 17 films together, including iconic works such as "True Grit," "The Searches," and "The Alamo." Their chemistry and camaraderie on screen resonated with audiences and cemented their status as a powerful duo in the Western genre.
Throughout his career, Worden portrayed a wide range of characters, from comedic sidekicks to menacing villains, always leaving a lasting impression on viewers. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to his roles set him apart as a distinctive and respected actor in Hollywood.
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