Enormously influential stage director, McClintic began his theatrical career as an actor, first appearing on Broadway in 1913. He branched out into producing in 1921 and directing the following year. He was married to actresses/producers
Estelle Winwood (divorced) and
Katharine Cornell (from 1921 until his death). McClintic remained active on Broadway until 1960 before his death in late 1961 at age 68.