Hal Riddle

William Hal Riddle was a small-town boy (1919-2009) from Fulton, Kentucky who lived big dreams. In his youth, Riddle wrote actress Billie Dove and received a signed photograph in return, a moment he cited as inspiration for his decision to become an actor. Riddle was a prolific, respected character actor who enjoyed success on Broadway and in Hollywood after serving in the navy during WWII. After the war, Riddle became good friends with the legendary Jack Lemmon during a stint at the Hayloft Summer Theater in Pennsylvania. Additionally, Riddle performed with two of the greatest stars of the era, Grace Kelly and Steve McQueen, at Sanford Meisner’s Neighborhood Playhouse. His Broadway debut in Mister Roberts was in 1950. 

After his time on Broadway, Riddle moved to Hollywood in 1958 to pursue his film and TV career, appearing on screen in more than 50 productions over the next three decades. His TV credits include many beloved shows, including The Fugitive, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Days of Our Lives. In his later years, he committed to donating his massive collection of Hollywood memorabilia to his alma mater, Murray State. Some items include movie and TV scripts, personal letters, and many photographs and props from various productions.