#17: Jack Elam

Jack Elam made a career out of playing unforgettable villains. With his wild-eyed stare and mischievous grin, he became a staple of Western cinema. He appeared in 70 films and numerous TV shows, including Once Upon a Time in the West, The Far Country, The Lone Ranger, and The Rifleman.

His unique look and charismatic performances set him apart from other character actors. Though often cast as an outlaw, he brought humor and depth to every role. His contributions to the genre were recognized in 1994 when he was inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers.