Samuel Southey Hinds (April 4, 1875 - October 13, 1948) was an American actor who was perhaps best known for the role as Peter Bailey in It's a Wonderful Life (1946). He was also known for his roles in the Abbott & Costello films such as Buck Privates (1941), Ride 'Em Cowboy (1942) and Pardon My Sarong (1942).

Hinds was born in Brooklyn, New York. He was a Harvard Law School graduate and was a lawyer before becoming an actor. In 1929, Hinds retired as a lawyer and started acting in Broadway shows at age 54. In 1932, Hinds acted a bit part in his first film If I Had a Million (1932). His second film was The Roads Are Open Again (1933) portrayed President Woodrow Wilson. Hinds acted in a total of 214 films. His last film was The Bribe (1948).

Hinds died of pnuemonia in Pasadena, California on October 13, 1948 at age 73.

Hinds, a Harvard graduate, was a lawyer in Hollywood up until the stock market crash of 1929, during which he lost most of his money. At that point and at the age of 54, Hinds, who had an interest in theater acting, decided to embark on a career in acting. The tall, dignified-looking Hinds appeared in over 200 films, characterizing men in positions of importance: doctors, judges, military officers, politicians, and such. His two most notable appearances were in Destry Rides Again, and It's a Wonderful Life. Hinds, who also appeared on stage during this time period, continued working up until his death in 1948.