FAST FACTS:

Da Silva appeared in more than 60 films over the course of his career, including the film-noir masterpiece, The Blue Dahlia.

The communist scare reached Hollywood by the late 1940's, and Da Silva fell victim to the ensuing hysteria.

Testifying before congress, actor Robert Taylor made public statements against him. Later, called before the House UnAmerican Activities Committee himself, Da Silva refused to answer any questions or name any names.

As a result, the studios black-listed Da Silva, and his film career was diminished through the 50's and 60's. He continued to work in theatre during the lean years and eventually made a comeback in film and television.