Little Known Spaghetti Western Actors ~ Robert Donner

[These daily posts will cover little known actors or people that have appeared in more recent films and TV series. Various degrees of information that I was able to find will be given and anything that you can add would be appreciated.]

Robert Donner was an American character actor renowned for his portrayals of eccentric and quirky supporting roles in film and television over a career spanning more than four decades.

Born in New York City on April 27, 1931, Donner spent his early years moving between New Jersey, Michigan, and Texas, shaping his diverse background before enlisting in the U.S. Navy immediately after high school, where he served for nearly four years. After his discharge, he relocated to the West Coast, attended California State University, Northridge, and began pursuing acting, debuting on screen in the 1959 Western Rio Bravo alongside John Wayne.

Donner's breakthrough came in the late 1960s with his role as the tough prisoner Alibi in “Cool Hand Luke” (1967), followed by appearances in notable films such as “Vanishing Point” (1971) and Clint Eastwood's “High Plains Drifter” (1973). On television, he became a familiar face for his comedic turns, including the dim-witted Yancy Tucker on ‘The Waltons’ in the 1970s and, most iconically, the delusional prophet Exidor on ‘Mork & Mindy’ from 1978 to 1982, a role that showcased his talent for offbeat humor. As a founding member of the improvisational troupe Crazy Quilt Comedy Company, he appeared in over 100 productions, often bringing a distinctive, memorable energy to ensemble casts, with his final role in the family adventure Hoot (2006). Donner passed away from a heart attack at his home in Sherman Oaks, California on June 8, 2006, survived by his wife, Jill, and two brothers.

Robert Donner appeared in one Spaghetti western as Skave in 1975’s “La parola di un fuorilegge... è legge!” (Take a Hard Ride).

DONNER, Robert (aka Bob Donner, Robt. Donner) (Robert Edward Rosen) [4/27/1931, New York City, New York, U.S.A. – 6/8/2006, Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A. (heart attack)] – film, TV actor, singer, married to director, actress Cissy Wellman (Celia McCarthy Wellman) [1943-    ] (1965-1982), married to producer, writer Jill Sherman [1950-    ] (1982-2006).

The Magnificent Stranger – 1966 [film was withdrawn]

Take a Hard Ride – 1975 (Skave)