Born in Fillmore, Missouri on November 8, 1902,[1] he began his show business career on the vaudeville and Broadway stages, where he proved himself an admirable singer.

[2] His final screen performance was on television, on The Donna Reed Show in 1961, where he was credited as Franklin Pinky Parker.

[3] His film career included appearances in such classic films as They Were Expendable, It's a Wonderful Life, Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House, Mighty Joe Young, and Pat and Mike.

[4] Occasionally he would have a larger role, such as the lead in the 1935 film, Sweet Surrender.

[5] He died of a heart attack in Hollywood, California on June 12, 1962.