Edward Joel Pawley was the first actor in history to portray the character of Elmer Gantry. In 1928, he starred in the Broadway play "Elmer Gantry" which opened at the Playhouse Theater in NYC. A multi-talented actor (Broadway, movies, radio) with a beautiful baritone voice! Edward Joel Pawley acted professionally for 31 years before retiring at the age of 50. He usually played "bad guy" roles both on Broadway and the movies. It wasn't until he left Hollywood (in 1942) and garnered the role of "Steve Wilson" on radio's very popular BIG TOWN drama series that he played the role of "hero." He was a very interesting man to talk with because he had a lot of stories to tell regarding his life experiences. His rich, baritone voice could beguile anyone, regardless of what he was talking about. Born in Kansas City, MO. in 1901, Mr. Pawley lived to be almost 87 years, dying in 1988. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Shipman, who was a Broadway musical star. Edward J. Pawley had a storied career on the Broaedway Stage, in Hollywood movies, and as "Steve Wilson" on radio's BIG TOWN drama series. His only child, a son named Martin H. Pawley, did not follow in his dad's footsteps. He became an accountant instead.
