He began his career at age 14, appearing onstage with the Baker Stock Company in his hometown of Portland, Oregon.

O'Farrell had minor bit parts throughout the 1940s, often appearing as conductors, doctors, and coroners in a variety of films.

O'Farrell was born July 13, 1882[1] in Portland, Oregon,[2] and where he was a regular performer with the Baker Stock Company[3] beginning at age 14.

[9] He supporting roles in numerous films, including No More Orchids (1932) with Carole Lombard,[10] The World Accuses (1934), and the Western The Law of the 45's (1935).

[10] In the 1940s, O'Farrell primarily appeared in uncredited bit parts, being cast as butlers, coroners, and doctors.