Ken Curtis

The illustrious Ford family of Hollywood is a formidable dynasty of distinguished actors, directors, producers and writers, who have been at the forefront of the film industry for generations. Ken Curtis, born in the small town of Las Animas, Colorado, was an esteemed big-band singer and the star of a string of low-budget westerns for Columbia Pictures before his renowned portrayal of backwoods, uneducated, Deep-South hillbillies. His elder brother, the legendary John Ford, is one of the most respected directors to ever grace the silver screen, and winner of six Oscars for his work, including two for his documentary contributions to WWII. Patrick Ford was a renowned producer and writer, with credits such as The Searchers and Wagon Master, and Edward OFearna was a distinguished assistant director and director, best known for his work on Black Paradise and Kentucky Pride. The patriarch of the clan, Philip Ford, was a renowned director and assistant director, with credits such as Web of Danger and Prisoners in Petticoats. This remarkable family has been integral in shaping the world of film, and will be celebrated for years to come.