During the Los Angeles premier of the movie Cimarron (1931) a power main exploded in front of the Orpheum Theater injuring 30 bystanders. McWade helped avert panic by yelling to the celebrities seated inside the theater "Don't get excited folks! That was just part of the celebration in my honor". The crowd laughed and an orderly evacuation soon followed.
Had extensive experience as a stage actor. McWade was active on Broadway from 1903-27. He moved to Hollywood upon the introduction of talkies and became a reliable member of Warner Brothers' stock company.
Older brother was actor Edward McWade.
Remembered for playing the loveable grouch.
Son of actor Robert McWade Sr.
Stricken with a fatal heart attack just moments after he had shot his final scene in the American Civil War drama, "Of Human Hearts" (1938).