Sebastian Cabot didn't neglect opportunities for film work because of his TV duties. His portrayal of that character seems to have typecast him to some degree, implanting his character on the collective psyche of a generation of TV viewers.
He is remembered for his full beard and rotund figure, providing a stolid figure belied by his sometimes befuddled formality. French was always well attired, as any good butler should be. Jody was played by Johnny Whitaker while his twin sister Buffy was played by Anissa Jones. The children were a teenaged girl named Sissy and grade school age twins Jody and Buffy. Between the two men they managed to deal with the issues faced by the children. French was a kind of surrogate to Brian Keith's actual surrogate fatherhood. The program dealt gently with the foibles of that relationship. Family Affair too was about a man being thrust into the role of father for orphaned relative children.
Sebastian Cabot was with the show for its entire run, from 1966 until 1971 except for a brief leave of absence.įamily Affair's concept wasn't original, having been done long before on radio's The Great Gildersleeve. His most widespread fame occurred when he took the role of 'gentleman's gentleman' Giles French on the CBS Television Network's sitcom Family Affair. Cabot also made an appearance in the game show Stump the Stars. Pip, a tour guide for the afterlife who had certain hidden (devilish) traits. He appeared in an episode of The Twilight Zone, playing Mr. Cabot began the transition to the small screen during that period. His work in film continued with many appearances until the early 60's. His first screen credited part was in 1936, appearing in the Alfred Hitchcock film Secret Agent. His first film acting role was a bit part in 1935's film Foreign Affaires. He made his London debut in 1945 in A Bell For Adano at the age of 27.
It worked to some degree and he acquired knowledge enough to advance himself. Sebastian Cabot got involved with performing by bluffing his way into parts, claiming to have performed roles he never had. He was also employed as chauffeur to British actor Frank Pettingell. Thankfully his wrestling career was ended by an injury. He had a turn as a chef as well as three years as a wrestler.
His father lost his business and young Sebastian became a garage helper at 14, finally becoming a garage mechanic.
Sebastian Cabot held several non-acting jobs before he entered the ranks of professional actor himself. Born as Charles Sebastian Thomas Cabot on Jin London, England.