
Kill the Umpire 1950
"Columbia's Bases Full of LAUGHS!!!"
In "Kill the Umpire (1950)", directed by Lloyd Bacon, ex-baseball player Bill Johnson finds himself struggling to fit into civilian life after his playing days end. Desperate for direction, he turns to his father-in-law, a retired umpire, who suggests a career change.
Director: Lloyd Bacon
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kill the Umpire (1950) about?
This 1950 comedy follows a former baseball player who becomes an umpire but quickly finds himself in the middle of a scandal during a championship game. When his call sparks a riot, he must defend his decision against an angry mob. The film blends humor with the highs and lows of sports officiating.
Who directed Kill the Umpire?
Lloyd Bacon directed "Kill the Umpire (1950)", bringing his signature knack for blending comedy with lighthearted drama.
Who stars in Kill the Umpire?
William Bendix leads the cast as the struggling ex-player, with Una Merkel, Ray Collins, Gloria Henry, and Jeff Richards rounding out the ensemble.
Is Kill the Umpire (1950) worth watching?
As a classic 1950s sports comedy, "Kill the Umpire (1950)" is a fun throwback with a runtime of just 78 minutes. While not a masterpiece, its nostalgic charm and lighthearted take on sports drama make it a pleasant watch for fans of vintage cinema.
How long is Kill the Umpire?
The runtime of "Kill the Umpire (1950)" is 78 minutes.
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About Kill the Umpire (1950) — Classic Comedy Where Fair Play Meets Frenzy
In "Kill the Umpire (1950)", directed by Lloyd Bacon, ex-baseball player Bill Johnson finds himself struggling to fit into civilian life after his playing days end. Desperate for direction, he turns to his father-in-law, a retired umpire, who suggests a career change. Johnson enrolls in umpire training, only to face chaos during a high-stakes championship game when his call sparks a riot. With accusations flying and tempers flaring, he must navigate a storm of outrage as a mob threatens drastic action. This classic comedy blends slapstick humor with the unpredictable nature of sports officiating.
Set against the backdrop of mid-century America, "Kill the Umpire (1950)" captures the tension between fairness and fervor in competitive sports. With William Bendix leading a charming cast and Una Merkel adding wit to the mix, the film delivers laughs while poking fun at the often-thankless role of umpires. The 78-minute runtime keeps the energy high, making it a delightful throwback to golden-age Hollywood comedy.