Classic Character - Marcel Dalio

I'd like to introduce a new feature of this blog, one I'm calling "Classic Characters", to focus on some lesser-known, but fabulous supporting actors.  You know them - the ones you recognize but can never remember their name.

Today's classic character is that fine supporting player, Marcel Dalio.  A Frenchman who made his name in American movies, he was in everything from Casablanca, to the original version of Sabrina, to Pillow Talk.  Rarely seen in a big, or meaty role, he nevertheless added a wonderful European flair to many a classic Hollywood movie.

Check him out in these classic movies:

Casablanca - He plays Emil, the croupier, who when Claude Rains shuts down Rick's Cafe because he's "...shocked! Shocked! To find that there's gambling going on in here!', presents him with "Your winnings, Sir."

To Have and Have Not - The movie that introduced Lauren Bacall to Bogey, Dalio plays "Frenchy", the owner of the local hotel.

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell on a transatlantic cruise to Paris, all while being pursued by suitors, and detectives trying to keep an eye on them.  Dalio plays the French magistrate, tasked with trying to figure out which girl is really Lorelei.

Pillow Talk - Doris Day and Rock Hudson as two apartment dwellers who meet over a telephone party line. Dalio plays Pierot, Doris Day's Interior Designer boss.