Who is Jack Wader The Bond’s Villain And Ally ?

Joe Don Baker is an American actor with a diverse filmography and an intriguing biography. He was born on February 12, 1936, in Groesbeck, Texas, and has made a significant impact on the film industry throughout his career. Known for his roles in action films, he has earned both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Baker first gained attention for his supporting roles in movies such as “Guns of the Magnificent Seven” (1969) and “Wild Rovers” (1971). However, it was his portrayal of a mafia hitman in “Charley Varrick” (1973) and his iconic role as the real-life Tennessee Sheriff Buford Pusser in “Walking Tall” (1973) that catapulted him to fame.

In addition to these memorable performances, Baker showcased his versatility as an actor in various other films. He portrayed a detective in “Mitchell” (1975), Deputy Sheriff Thomas Jefferson Geronimo III in “Final Justice” (1985), and police chief Jerry Karlin in “Fletch” (1985).

Joe Don Baker appeared in two James Bond films. He played the character Brad Whitaker in the 1987 James Bond film “The Living Daylights,” which starred Timothy Dalton as James Bond. Brad Whitaker is a flamboyant and eccentric arms dealer who collaborates with the film’s main antagonist, General Georgi Koskov.

Joe Don Baker returned to the James Bond franchise in the 1995 film “GoldenEye,” starring Pierce Brosnan as James Bond. However, in “GoldenEye,” he played a different character named Jack Wade. Jack Wade is a CIA agent who provides assistance to Bond during the course of the film.

So, Joe Don Baker had two distinct roles in James Bond films, appearing as both a villain (Brad Whitaker) and an ally (Jack Wade) in different installments of the franchise.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Joe Don Baker was born on February 12, 1936, in Groesbeck, Texas, USA. His early life was marked by a passion for acting, and he embarked on his career in the entertainment industry with determination.

Baker’s career beginnings can be traced back to the 1960s when he started making appearances in both film and television. He initially took on small roles in various television series, such as “Gunsmoke,” “The Virginian,” and “Bonanza.” These early television appearances helped him gain experience and recognition in the industry.

While his early television work was promising, it was his transition to the big screen that allowed him to truly showcase his talent. He took on supporting roles in movies like “Cool Hand Luke” (1967), “Guns of the Magnificent Seven” (1969), and “Wild Rovers” (1971), which helped him build a reputation as a versatile actor.

 

Supporting Roles and Breakthrough Performances

However, it was his role as a mafia hitman in the film “Charley Varrick” (1973) and his portrayal of the real-life Tennessee Sheriff Buford Pusser in “Walking Tall” (1973) that brought him widespread recognition and acclaim. These roles marked a turning point in his career, establishing him as a prominent actor in the industry.

Joe Don Baker’s early life and career beginnings were characterized by his dedication to acting and his gradual ascent in both television and film. His talent and versatility as an actor allowed him to leave a lasting impact on the entertainment world, paving the way for a successful and enduring career in the years to come.

Another breakthrough role for Baker was his portrayal of Tennessee Sheriff Buford Pusser in “Walking Tall.” Based on a true story, this film showcased his ability to bring complex characters to life, earning him widespread recognition and establishing him as a leading man. Baker’s intense and captivating performance in “Walking Tall” solidified his status as a respected actor in Hollywood.

 

Joe Don Baker’s DVD

 

Television Career and Collaborations

Joe Don Baker is  known for his work in both film and television. While he is perhaps best known for his film roles, he has also had a notable television career with various appearances and collaborations. Here are some key aspects of Joe Don Baker’s television career and collaborations:

Early Television Appearances: Joe Don Baker began his television career in the 1960s with guest appearances on various popular TV shows of the era, such as “Gunsmoke,” “The Virginian,” and “Bonanza.”

Eischied (1979-1980): One of Baker’s most significant television roles was playing the lead character, Detective Chief Inspector Frank Eischied, in the TV series “Eischied.” The show followed the exploits of a tough, no-nonsense New York City detective. Baker’s portrayal of Eischied was well-received during its brief run.

The Dukes of Hazzard (1980-1982): Baker had a recurring role as Sheriff Buford T. Justice in the popular TV series “The Dukes of Hazzard.” His character was a corrupt lawman with a particular vendetta against the Duke family. This role is often associated with his appearance in the “Smokey and the Bandit” film series, where he played a similar character.

Perry Mason TV Movies: Joe Don Baker appeared in several Perry Mason made-for-TV movies during the 1980s and 1990s. He played various roles in these movies, which were based on the classic legal drama series. These movies allowed him to showcase his acting skills in the courtroom setting.

Collaborations: While not primarily known for collaborations in the television industry, Joe Don Baker did work with a range of actors and directors over the years, both in TV and film. Some of his notable collaborations include working with directors like Don Siegel (“Charley Varrick”) and appearing alongside actors such as Clint Eastwood, Robert Duvall, and Walter Matthau in various film projects.

Late Career Television Roles: In the latter part of his career, Joe Don Baker continued to make occasional guest appearances in television series and TV movies. These roles often capitalized on his tough-guy image and acting skills.

While Joe Don Baker is more renowned for his work in feature films, his television career, including his notable roles in series like “Eischied” and “The Dukes of Hazzard,” as well as his appearances in TV movies and shows, contributed to his overall body of work in the entertainment industry.