Pierre Frank Watkin (December 29, 1887 – February 3, 1960) was an American character actor best known for playing distinguished authority figures throughout the Golden Age of Hollywood.

[1][2] When Watkin was a young child, his family moved to Sioux City, Iowa, where his parents ran a boarding house for actors.

[citation needed] Watkin began his career touring the Midwest with various theatrical troupes, including with the company of Morgan Wallace.

Over his 25 year career, Watkin became well-known as a freelance actor, often appearing in bit roles — many uncredited — as wealthy distinguished authority figures such as bankers and judges.

Watkin also received prominent roles from low-budget poverty row studios, appearing in several Western films for Republic Pictures.

When producers were looking to revive the series after its cancellation in 1958, Watkin was cast in the role of Perry White again, replacing the late John Hamilton.