The first acting role for Paul Lawrence Smith occurred in 1960 at age 24, when he appeared in Otto Preminger's epic Exodus. Born in Everett in 1936, the actor built a long career as a screen heavy, establishing a distinct presence in cinema through his physical stature and a diverse international filmography that spanned from Hollywood productions to Israeli television.
Early Career and Israeli Connection
After graduating from Brandeis University, Smith made his debut in Exodus, which was filmed in Israel. This experience marked his first time in the country. He returned in 1967 to serve as a Mahal volunteer during the Six-Day War. He remained in Israel for six years, contributing to local film and television productions. During this period, he expanded his professional portfolio into behind-the-scenes roles, serving as the director for the 1970 documentary Milhemet 20 HaShanim and the 1972 crime drama Jacko Vehayatzaniot.
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Between 1973 and 1977, Smith participated in a series of Italian films alongside Antonio Cantafora, who used the professional name Michael Coby. This project mirrored the style of the Terence Hill and Bud Spencer films. When Film Ventures International released their film Convoy Buddies, the company rebranded Smith as Bob Spencer without his permission. Smith initiated a lawsuit against the studio, asserting that an actor's reputation is essential for professional advancement. The court ruled in his favor, ordering the studio to pay both damages and legal costs.
Notable Screen Roles
Smith became recognized for portraying antagonists and imposing figures. His performance as the prison guard Hamidou in the 1978 film Midnight Express gained significant attention. He subsequently portrayed the character Bluto in the 1980 adaptation of Popeye, directed by Robert Altman. His career included roles in the 1981 ABC miniseries Masada as Gideon, the 1984 film Dune as Glossu Rabban, and the 1985 film Red Sonja as Falkon. Throughout his career, he appeared in episodic television programs including Emergency!, CHiPS, Wonder Woman, Barney Miller, and Hawaii Five-O.
Fast facts
- Born: 24 June 1936, Everett
- Died: 25 April 2012, Ra'anana
- Education: Brandeis University
- Citizenship: United States and Israel
- Notable Role: Hamidou in Midnight Express
- Notable Role: Bluto in Popeye
- Directing credits: Milhemet 20 HaShanim, Jacko Vehayatzaniot
- Music credit: I'm Mean (1980)
Questions readers ask
What was the result of Smith's lawsuit against Film Ventures International?
Smith successfully sued the studio for rebranding him as 'Bob Spencer' without consent, resulting in a court ruling that awarded him damages and legal costs.
In which countries did Paul L. Smith work?
He worked primarily in the United States, Israel, and Italy throughout his career.
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