Preston Foster (August 24, 1901-July 14, 1970) was an American stage and film actor. Foster entered films in 1929 after appearing as a Broadway stage actor. Foster was considered ruggedly handsome and a talented singer. Some of his notable films include: Doctor X (1932), I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932), Annie Oakley (1935), The Last Days of Pompeii (also 1935), The Informer (1935) (as the head of the organization), Thunderbirds (1942) opposite Gene Tierney, My Friend Flicka (1943), Kansas City Confidential (1952) and I, the Jury (1953).
He also starred on the television drama, Waterfront (1954-1955), playing the role of Captain John Herrick. Foster has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was sometimes credited in movies as Preston S. Foster. His first wife was stage actress Gertrude Warren (1926-1945)(divorced). He had one daughter, Stephanie. He was married to his second wife, actress Sheila Darcy, from 1946 until his death.
During World War II while serving with the United States Coast Guard, he rose to the rank of captain, Temporary Reserve. He eventually held the honorary rank of Commodore in the U.S. Coast Guard.
He-man actor in 30's and 40's US films.
Actor, composer, songwriter, guitarist and author. He moved from Broadway acting (1928-1932) into films, touring America with his wife and daughter, and did some recordings. He was the executive producer at the El Camino Playhouse in California. Joining ASCAP in 1953, his chief musical collaborator was Perry Botkin. His popular-song compositions include "Good Ship Lalapaloo" and "Two Shillelagh O'Sullivan".
