Joseph Patrick Cranshaw (June 17, 1919 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma — December 28, 2005 in Fort Worth, Texas) was an American film and television actor known for his distinctive look and deadpan humor. He is probably better known for one of his last roles, that of Joseph "Blue" Palasky, a fraternity brother in the 2003 hit comedy Old School.
Despite an acting span of more than 40 years, Cranshaw's first credited film role came at the age of 41, in 1960s The Amazing Transparent Man. Cranshaw's mild-mannered and gentlemanly demeanor led him to a number of roles as bank tellers, store managers, and grandfathers. His major credits include 1967's Bonnie and Clyde, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Pee-Wee's Big Adventure, The Hudsucker Proxy, Everyone Says I Love You, Best in Show, and the aforementioned Old School. He also appeared in over 50 television shows.
Cranshaw died of natural causes, at 86 years old, at his home in Fort Worth, Texas. Upon learning of his death, the hosts of the Dallas radio show BaD Radio inducted him into their prestigious "Ring of Honor".
