Gene Roth

Biography

Gene Roth, born Eugene Oliver Edgar Stutenroth on January 8, 1903, in Redfield, South Dakota, was a notable American film actor recognized for his extensive career in cinema. Over the span of 45 years, he appeared in more than 250 films, leaving a significant mark on Hollywood from 1922 until 1967.

Roth gained notoriety for his compelling portrayals of villains, particularly in a series of Three Stooges short films, including titles like *Slaphappy Sleuths*, *Hot Stuff*, *Quiz Whizz*, *Outer Space Jitters*, and *Pies and Guys*. His standout role was as the Russian spy Bortsch in *Dunked in the Deep* (1949) and its 1956 remake, *Commotion on the Ocean*. His iconic line, directed at Shemp Howard, “Give me dat fill-um!” has become a memorable part of his legacy.

In addition to his film work, Roth starred as the dictator of the lost planet Ergro in the 1953 Columbia Pictures serial *The Lost Planet* and frequently appeared on television, including seven episodes of *The Lone Ranger* between 1949 and 1954. He also made a memorable appearance in *The Three Stooges Meet Hercules*.

Tragically, Gene Roth's life was cut short when he was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver in Los Angeles, California, on July 19, 1976.