Eugene Hugh Beaumont (February 16, 1909 – May 14, 1982) was an American  actor and television director. He was also licensed to preach by the Methodist church. Beaumont is best known for his portrayal of Ward Cleaver on the television series Leave It to Beaver (1957–1963). He had earlier played the role of the private detective Michael Shayne in a series of 1940s films.