Normann Burton was a talented and versatile character actor whose career spanned more than three decades. Best remembered for his portrayal of Steve Trevor’s superior, Joe Atkinson, in the Wonder Woman television series, Burton built a solid reputation in Hollywood through his diverse roles in film and television. Whether playing government officials, villains, or everyday characters, Burton’s screen presence and professionalism made him a dependable actor for a wide variety of projects.
Although Burton’s time on Wonder Woman was relatively short, his work on the show contributed to its success during its first season. In addition to Wonder Woman, Burton appeared in a number of iconic films and television shows, including the James Bond movie Diamonds Are Forever and the science fiction classic Planet of the Apes. Burton’s ability to blend into different genres and bring depth to his characters ensured that he remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry throughout his career.
This biography explores Normann Burton’s early life, his career in film and television, his memorable role on Wonder Woman, and his enduring legacy as a character actor who helped define a generation of popular media.
Early Life and Path to Acting
Normann Burton was born on December 5, 1923, in New York City. Growing up in one of the world’s cultural capitals, Burton was exposed to the performing arts at a young age, which helped foster his interest in acting. After completing his education, Burton decided to pursue a career in the entertainment industry and began studying acting in earnest.
Burton’s formal training included time at the prestigious Actors Studio in New York, where he studied under the guidance of some of the most respected names in theater and film. The Actors Studio, known for its dedication to method acting, provided Burton with the skills and discipline that would later become the foundation of his work as a character actor. He also studied in New York’s Neighborhood Playhouse, honing his craft and learning the nuances of stage and screen acting.
Before making his way to Hollywood, Burton performed in live theater, appearing in various stage productions that allowed him to develop his technique and establish himself as a dedicated performer. His time in theater gave him a strong sense of professionalism, which would serve him well as he transitioned to film and television.
Early Career in Film and Television
Burton made his first significant foray into film in the 1950s, beginning with supporting roles that showcased his versatility and screen presence. One of his early roles came in the film Frankenstein 1970 (1958), in which he appeared opposite horror icon Boris Karloff. Although the film was not a major commercial success, it provided Burton with valuable on-screen experience and helped him build industry connections.
As the 1960s progressed, Burton found steady work in both film and television. His tall stature, distinguished features, and authoritative demeanor made him a natural fit for roles as military officers, government officials, and law enforcement figures. He appeared in several popular television series of the era, including Bonanza, The Outer Limits, and Perry Mason. These guest-starring roles helped establish Burton as a reliable actor, and his ability to take on a wide range of characters made him a sought-after performer in Hollywood.
In 1968, Burton landed a role in the groundbreaking science fiction film Planet of the Apes, which became one of the most iconic films of the decade. He portrayed a hunt leader, one of the humanoid apes that captures the protagonist, George Taylor (Charlton Heston). Though Burton’s role in the film was not a lead, his participation in such an influential movie marked a milestone in his career. The success of Planet of the Apes paved the way for future opportunities, and Burton continued to work steadily in both film and television throughout the 1970s.
Wonder Woman: Joe Atkinson and His Role in the Series
In 1976, Normann Burton joined the cast of Wonder Woman, a television series based on the DC Comics superhero. Starring Lynda Carter as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman and Lyle Waggoner as Steve Trevor, the show became a cultural phenomenon and helped introduce the superhero genre to a new generation of television viewers.
Burton was cast as Joe Atkinson, a high-ranking official in the IADC (Inter-Agency Defense Command) and Steve Trevor’s superior. Atkinson worked closely with both Trevor and Wonder Woman, overseeing their missions and providing critical intelligence and support. His role as the government figure who facilitated Wonder Woman’s adventures made him an essential part of the first season’s narrative structure.
Although Joe Atkinson was not a major character in the series, Burton’s portrayal of the stoic and authoritative government official added a layer of realism to the show’s fantastical plotlines. He appeared in six episodes of Wonder Woman during the show’s first season, most notably in episodes such as “The Pluto File” and “Last of the Two Dollar Bills.” In these episodes, Burton’s character provided vital information that helped Wonder Woman foil the plans of various villains and protect national security.
Burton’s calm and collected demeanor in the role of Joe Atkinson complemented the action-packed adventures of Wonder Woman, creating a balance between the government operations and the superhero’s daring exploits. However, when the show moved from ABC to CBS and transitioned its setting from the World War II era to the 1970s, Burton’s character was phased out of the series. Nevertheless, his contribution to Wonder Woman helped establish the tone of the show’s early episodes, and his portrayal of Joe Atkinson remains a memorable part of the series for long-time fans.
Iconic Film Roles: Diamonds Are Forever and Escape from the Planet of the Apes
In addition to his work on Wonder Woman, Normann Burton is also known for his roles in several iconic films. One of his most notable performances came in the 1971 James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, starring Sean Connery as 007. Burton played Felix Leiter, an American CIA agent and one of Bond’s allies, marking his place in one of the most famous film franchises in history.
Burton’s portrayal of Felix Leiter, although brief, was memorable for its straightforward and professional demeanor. In the film, Leiter assists Bond in tracking down the villainous Ernst Stavro Blofeld and uncovering a diamond smuggling ring. As the CIA agent working alongside the British spy, Burton’s character helped reinforce the collaboration between the two agencies, and his performance added to the film’s action-packed narrative. Diamonds Are Forever remains a favorite among James Bond fans, and Burton’s portrayal of Felix Leiter is often cited as one of the more understated but effective performances in the series.
In 1971, Burton returned to the Planet of the Apes franchise, reprising his role in Escape from the Planet of the Apes, the third film in the series. This time, Burton’s role as a military officer placed him in a position of authority as the apes Zira and Cornelius arrive in a modern-day human society. Although Burton’s role was secondary to the film’s primary plotline, his participation in the Planet of the Apes franchise helped solidify his place in science fiction cinema.
Later Career and Legacy
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Normann Burton continued to work in film and television, appearing in a wide variety of roles that showcased his versatility as an actor. He made guest appearances in shows such as Murder, She Wrote, Knight Rider, and The Fall Guy, demonstrating his ability to adapt to different genres and styles of television.
In addition to his on-screen work, Burton also taught acting classes, passing on his knowledge and experience to a new generation of actors. His commitment to his craft and his professionalism on set earned him the respect of his peers and colleagues in the industry.
Burton’s career as a character actor is a testament to his dedication and versatility. He successfully navigated the changing landscape of Hollywood, moving between television and film with ease. His roles in iconic projects like Wonder Woman, Planet of the Apes, and Diamonds Are Forever have ensured that his work will be remembered by fans for years to come.
On November 29, 2003, Normann Burton passed away at the age of 79, following a car accident. While he may not have been a household name, his contributions to film and television left a lasting impact, and his roles in some of the most beloved projects of his time have cemented his place in entertainment history. Normann Burton’s legacy as a versatile and dependable character actor continues to be appreciated by audiences who remember his work in classic television and film.