Warren Oates

Warren Mercer Oates (July 5, 1928 – April 3, 1982) was an American actor best known for his performances in several films directed by Sam Peckinpah, including ''The Wild Bunch'' (1969) and ''Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia'' (1974). Another of his most acclaimed performances was as officer Sam Wood in ''In the Heat of the Night'' (1967). Oates starred in numerous films during the early 1970s that have since achieved cult status, such as ''The Hired Hand'' (1971), ''Two-Lane Blacktop'' (1971), and ''Race with the Devil'' (1975). Oates also portrayed John Dillinger in the biopic ''Dillinger'' (1973) and as the supporting character U.S. Army Sergeant Hulka in the military comedy ''Stripes'' (1981). Another notable appearance was in the classic New Zealand film ''Sleeping Dogs'' (1977), in which he played the commander of the American forces in the country. Provided by Wikipedia