Edward Faulkner, the veteran character actor best known for his frequent collaborations with John Wayne, has d**d at 93.
The actor passed away on August 26 from natural causes at a health care facility in Vista, California, his daughter Leslie Wadsworth confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.
Edward Faulkner (1932–2024) was an American character actor remembered for his steady presence in Hollywood Westerns and adventure films. Born on February 29, 1932, in Lexington, Kentucky, Faulkner pursued acting after serving in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot.
His career took off in the early 1960s when director Andrew V. McLaglen cast him in several productions. He made his feature film debut in G.I. Blues (1960) and later appeared as fitness instructor Brad Bentley in Elvis Presley’s Tickle Me (1965).
A familiar face in classic Westerns, Faulkner’s career gained momentum thanks to director Andrew V. McLaglen, who cast him in a string of films. He went on to appear in six movies alongside Wayne, including McLintock! (1963), The Green Berets (1968), Rio Lobo (1970), Hellfighters (1968), The Undefeated (1969), and Chisum (1970).
While filming The Undefeated in Mexico, Wayne noticed Faulkner’s daughters—Jan, Barbara, and Leslie—watching from the sidelines. He called over to the wardrobe team and had the girls dressed so they could appear in the film.
Tall, rugged, and versatile, Faulkner became a dependable supporting player, often portraying soldiers, ranch hands, or tough allies. While his name may not have topped the marquee, his face became a familiar one to audiences of the era.
Faulkner also worked steadily in television, with guest roles on series like Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and The Virginian.
Away from the screen, Faulkner valued family life, and lived quietly outside the spotlight.
