Famous movie actors died in the year 1956
Here are 50 famous actors from the world died in 1956:
John Emerson
John Emerson (May 29, 1874 Sandusky-March 7, 1956 Pasadena) otherwise known as Clifton Paden was an American film producer, playwright, actor, film director, screenwriter and writer.
He began his career in the entertainment industry as a playwright and actor, working in vaudeville and on Broadway. In 1914, he ventured into the film industry and joined the pioneering production company, The Essanay Studios.
Emerson made his directorial debut with the 1915 film "Vultures of Society". He went on to direct over 50 films including "By Right of Purchase" (1918), "A Man of Quality" (1919), and "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse" (1921) which is now considered a classic of the silent era.
In addition to directing, Emerson also produced and co-wrote many of his films. He worked with some of the biggest stars of his time including Rudolph Valentino, Gloria Swanson, and Wallace Reid.
Emerson married Anita Loos, a successful screenwriter, in 1919 and they worked on several films together, including "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1928) which was later adapted into a successful Broadway musical.
Emerson continued to work in the film industry throughout the 1920s and 1930s before retiring in the 1940s. He passed away in 1956 at the age of 81 in Pasadena, California.
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Lloyd Ingraham
Lloyd Ingraham (November 30, 1874 Rochelle-April 4, 1956 Los Angeles) also known as Frank L. Inghram, Frank L. Ingraham, Lloyd Ingram or Lloyd Chauncey Ingraham was an American film director, actor and screenwriter. He had one child, Lois Ingraham.
Ingraham began his career in the film industry in 1912, initially as an actor, but later transitioned to directing and screenwriting. He worked closely with legendary film director D.W. Griffith, and directed several films for Griffith's production company. Ingraham's early directorial efforts often focused on westerns and dramas, and he became known for his attention to detail and skillful handling of complex narratives.
In addition to his work with Griffith, Ingraham directed and wrote for several other studios throughout his career, including Universal, Warner Bros., and Columbia Pictures. He also acted in over 150 films during his career, often appearing in small character roles.
In the 1930s, Ingraham's career began to slow down due to health issues, and he eventually retired from the film industry in the early 1940s. He passed away in 1956 at the age of 81 in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy as one of the influential early voices in American film.
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Mikhail Rasumny
Mikhail Rasumny (May 13, 1890 Odessa-February 17, 1956 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Mikhail Rasumni, Mikhail Razumnyy, Michael Rasumny or Михаїл Разумний was an American actor.
He was born in Odessa, Ukraine in 1890 and began his acting career in Russian theater. He later immigrated to the United States in the 1920s and became a successful comedic character actor in Hollywood films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Rasumny was known for his distinctive appearance, often playing eccentric or foreign characters with thick accents. Some of his notable film credits include "Ninotchka" (1939), "To Be or Not to Be" (1942), and "Anchors Aweigh" (1945). Rasumny passed away in 1956 at the age of 65 in Woodland Hills, California.
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Charley Rogers
Charley Rogers (January 15, 1887 Birmingham-December 20, 1956 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Charles H. Rogers, Charles Alfred Rogers or Charles Rogers was a British screenwriter, actor and film director.
Rogers was best known for his work as a writer and collaborator with Laurel and Hardy, having co-written many of their most popular films including "Sons of the Desert", "Way Out West", and "Block-Heads". Prior to his work with Laurel and Hardy, Rogers was an actor and director in his own right, starring in films such as "The Better 'Ole" and "Red Hot Rhythm". He also directed early sound films such as "The Devil's Brother" and "Babes in Toyland". Rogers retired from the film industry in the 1940s and passed away in 1956 at the age of 69.
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Ray Myers
Ray Myers (June 21, 1889 Hot Springs-November 4, 1956 Los Angeles) was an American film director and actor.
He began his career in the film industry as an actor in the early 1910s, working for studios such as Essanay and Lubin. Myers later transitioned into directing, and throughout the 1920s and 1930s, he directed silent films and talkies for various studios including Warner Bros., Columbia, and Universal.
One of Myers' notable directorial achievements was the film "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925), which starred Lon Chaney and is considered a classic in the horror genre. He also directed westerns such as "Hell's Hinges" (1916) and "The Last Frontier" (1926), and comedies like "The Campus Flirt" (1926).
Myers received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the film industry. He passed away due to a heart attack in 1956 at the age of 67 in Los Angeles, California.
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Adelqui Migliar
Adelqui Migliar (August 5, 1891 Concepción-August 6, 1956 Santiago) also known as Adelqui Migliar Icardi or Adelqui Millar was a Chilean film director, actor, screenwriter and film producer.
Migliar was born in Concepción, Chile and began his career in the film industry in the early 1920s, working for the Chilean film production company, Chile Films. He is best known for his work as a director, with some of his most notable films including "El Húsar de la Muerte" (1925), "El Diablo en la Carne" (1934), and "Tres Vidas Errantes" (1949). Migliar also acted in a number of films, including "El Vampiro" (1939) and "Tres Vidas Errantes." In addition to his work in the film industry, Migliar was also a writer and his novel, "Las Inquietas" was published in 1917. Migliar passed away in Santiago in 1956, leaving behind a legacy as one of the pioneers of Chilean cinema.
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Bob Burns
Bob Burns (August 2, 1890 Greenwood-February 2, 1956 Encino) also known as Robin Burn, Bazooka Burns, Robert Burns, The Arkansas Philosopher, The Arkansas Traveler or Bob 'Bazooka' Burns was an American comedian and actor. He had four children, William Robin Burns, Barbara Ann Burns, Stephen Burns and Robert Burns Jr..
Bob Burns gained popularity for his hillbilly-style vaudeville performances, which involved playing homemade instruments, including his famous "Bazooka" - a makeshift musical instrument made from two gas pipes. He started his career in entertainment as a singer and harmonica player in a medicine show before achieving success in radio, film, and television.
Burns appeared in several films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "College Humor" and "Waikiki Wedding." He was also a regular guest star on popular radio variety shows, such as "The Chase and Sanborn Hour" and "The Rudy Vallee Show."
Despite his success and popularity, Burns was known for his down-to-earth personality and kindness. He was actively involved in various charities and often visited hospitalized children to entertain them with his music.
In addition to his entertainment career, Burns also had a keen interest in science and astronomy, and he built his own observatory in California. He also designed and patented an early version of the car alarm.
Bob Burns's legacy in entertainment and music continues to influence modern artists, and his Bazooka instrument has since become an iconic staple in popular music.
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Tod Slaughter
Tod Slaughter (March 19, 1885 Newcastle upon Tyne-February 19, 1956 Derby) a.k.a. Norman Carter Slaughter or N. Carter Slaughter was a British actor.
He is best known for his roles in melodramatic and horror films, often playing villainous characters. Slaughter began his career in the early 1900s performing in music halls and theater productions. In the 1920s, he transitioned to film and became one of the most popular stars of the British horror genre. His most famous roles include the title character in "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" (1936), the wicked Sir Jasper in "Maria Marten, or The Murder in the Red Barn" (1935), and the villainous Judge in "Crimes at the Dark House" (1940). Slaughter's acting style was known for its over-the-top villainy and exaggerated gestures, earning him the nickname "The King of the Horror Villains". He continued to act in films and on stage until his death in 1956.
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Axel Frische
Axel Frische (March 15, 1877 Tjele Municipality-February 2, 1956 Denmark) was a Danish screenwriter, film director and actor. He had one child, Grete Frische.
Frische began his career in the Danish silent film industry in 1910. He became known for his works such as "The Lion Hunt" and "The King's Game", both of which he wrote and directed. Frische acted in several films as well, including "The Witch" (1914) and "The Viking's Wife" (1916).
In the 1930s, Frische worked as a film censor for the Danish government. He was a strict enforcer of censorship laws and drew criticism from the film industry for removing scenes deemed offensive or explicit. Despite this, Frische continued to work in the film industry and wrote several film reviews for newspapers in Denmark.
Frische remained active in the film industry until his death in 1956 at the age of 78. He is remembered as a pioneering figure in Danish cinema and a leading voice in the country's film industry.
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Charles Wilken
Charles Wilken (November 8, 1866 Denmark-February 26, 1956 Denmark) was a Danish actor.
He began his acting career on the stage in Denmark before moving to Hollywood in the 1920s to pursue a career in film. His first American film was a silent movie called "Singin' Fool" in 1928, and he went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often playing character roles or villains. Wilken was known for his distinctive accent and commanding presence on screen. In addition to his work in film, he also performed on radio and appeared in stage productions in the United States. After retiring from acting, Wilken returned to Denmark and lived there until his death in 1956.
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Clay Clement
Clay Clement (May 19, 1888 Greentree-October 20, 1956 Watertown) otherwise known as Clay Clement Jr. or Claudius Geiger was an American actor. He had one child, John Marshall Clement Sr..
Clement began his acting career in vaudeville and appeared in over 100 films throughout his career. He often played character roles and appeared in several notable films including "The Little Colonel," "San Francisco," and "Gone with the Wind." Clement was also a prolific voice actor and provided his voice for several animated films including "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and "Dumbo." Outside of acting, Clement was a skilled ice skater and wrote several scripts for ice shows. He passed away in 1956 at the age of 68.
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Carlo Duse
Carlo Duse (January 5, 1899 Udine-August 9, 1956 Rome) a.k.a. C. Duse or Carlo Artemio Vittorio Duse was an Italian actor, screenwriter and film director.
Duse was born in Udine, Italy on January 5, 1899. He studied acting and made his stage debut in the 1920s. He appeared in several Italian films in the 1930s and 1940s, often playing supporting roles. Duse wrote and directed his first film, "Una Donna tra due mondi" in 1947, which had a successful run in Italy. He went on to direct several more films, including "La Madonnina d'Oro" (1955), which was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Duse died in Rome on August 9, 1956 at the age of 57. He is remembered as a talented actor and filmmaker who left his mark on Italian cinema.
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Holmes Herbert
Holmes Herbert (July 30, 1882 Mansfield-December 26, 1956 Hollywood) also known as Holmes Edward Herbert, Horace Edward Jenner, Horace Jenner, Holmes E. Herbert, H.E. Herbert or Edward Sanger was an English actor. He had one child, Joan Herbert.
Herbert began his career as a stage actor in London before making his way to America in 1912. He quickly established himself as a character actor in Hollywood, appearing in over 200 films between 1915 and 1952. Some of his notable roles include Mr. Faversham in "The Four Feathers" (1929), Dr. John H. Watson in "The Return of Sherlock Holmes" (1929), and Admiral Sir John Fielding in "Captain Blood" (1935). Herbert was also a member of the Motion Picture Alliance for the Preservation of American Ideals, a conservative organization founded in 1944. Outside of his career in acting, he was also known for his passion for gardening and authored a book on the subject, "Gardens of Character."
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Frank H. Wilson
Frank H. Wilson (May 4, 1886 New York City-February 16, 1956 Queens) also known as Frank Henry Wilson or Frank Wilson was an American actor.
Wilson began his acting career on Broadway in 1905, debuting in the play "The Blue Moon." He went on to have a successful career in theatre, appearing in productions such as "The Hottentot" and "In Love With Love." Wilson made his transition to film in 1916, appearing in the silent film "The Vamp." One of his most notable roles in film was in the 1931 film "The Public Enemy" where he played the role of McKay, a member of the Irish gang. He appeared in over 100 films during his career, often playing supporting roles. Wilson was also a member of the Screen Actors Guild and served on the board of directors for many years. He passed away at the age of 69 due to complications from diabetes.
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Bela Lugosi
Bela Lugosi (October 20, 1882 Lugoj-August 16, 1956 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Béla Ferenc Dezső Blaskó, Arisztid Olt, Be'la Ferenc Dezso Blasko, Adelbert, Dracula, Olt Arisztid, Mr. Blasko or Béla Lugosi was an American actor. His child is called Bela G. Lugosi.
Lugosi was originally from Hungary and started his acting career on stage in his home country. He gained fame for his portrayal of Count Dracula in a Broadway production of Bram Stoker's novel. He later reprised the role in the 1931 film adaptation and became forever associated with the character.
Despite his success as Dracula, Lugosi struggled to find work in Hollywood due to typecasting and his thick accent. He continued to act in horror films throughout his career, but also took on other roles in an effort to show his versatility.
Lugosi had a well-documented addiction to morphine and became increasingly isolated in his later years. He died in 1956 from a heart attack and was buried wearing one of his Dracula capes.
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Jean Hersholt
Jean Hersholt (July 12, 1886 Copenhagen-June 2, 1956 Hollywood) also known as Jean Pierre Hersholt or Jean Buron Hersholt was a Danish actor and film director. He had two children, Allan Hersholt and Jean Hersholt Jr..
Hersholt started his acting career in Denmark before moving to the United States in the early 1910s. He quickly became a prominent actor in Hollywood during the silent film era, and continued to act in films during the transition to sound films. Hersholt is perhaps best known for his role as Shirley Temple's grandfather in the film "Heidi" (1937).
In addition to acting, Hersholt also served as president of the Motion Picture Relief Fund, which provided assistance to members of the film industry who were in need. He was also the founder of the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, which is presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to an individual in the film industry who has made a significant humanitarian contribution.
Hersholt's legacy in Hollywood is also honored with the Jean Hersholt Boulevard, a street located in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles.
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Louis Calhern
Louis Calhern (February 19, 1895 Brooklyn-May 12, 1956 Nara) otherwise known as Carl Henry Vogt, Louis Calhearn, Carl Vogt or Lou was an American actor.
Born in Brooklyn, New York in 1895, Louis Calhern began his acting career on Broadway in 1921. He made his film debut in 1926 in the silent film "On Ze Boulevard" and went on to appear in over 100 films throughout his career. Calhern is perhaps best known for his roles in classic films such as "The Asphalt Jungle" (1950), "High Society" (1956), and as Julius Caesar in the 1953 film adaptation of Shakespeare's play. He was also a respected stage actor and appeared in numerous productions throughout his lifetime. Calhern was married twice and had two children. He passed away in Nara, Japan while on vacation at the age of 61.
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Jack Little
Jack Little (May 30, 1899 London-April 9, 1956) also known as Little, Little Jack, John Leonard or Little Jack Little was an American songwriter, singer, actor and conductor.
He was born in London, England, but his family immigrated to the United States when he was just a child. Little became famous during the 1920s and 1930s for creating catchy and memorable tunes, such as "The Wedding of Jack and Jill" and "Jeepers Creepers," which became a jazz standard.
In addition to his career as a songwriter and performer, Little also acted in movies such as "The Great American Broadcast" and "The Hit Parade of 1941." He was also a conductor for various orchestras, including the NBC Symphony Orchestra.
Despite his success, Little struggled with alcoholism and his career declined in the 1940s. He died in 1956 from complications related to cirrhosis of the liver.
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Charley Grapewin
Charley Grapewin (December 20, 1869 Xenia-February 2, 1956 Corona) a.k.a. Charles Ellsworth Grapewin, Charley Ellsworth Grapewin or Charles Grapewin was an American actor, aerialist and screenwriter.
Grapewin appeared in dozens of films, including several silent films, and is perhaps best known for his role as Uncle Henry in the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz". He began his career in vaudeville as an aerialist before transitioning to acting, and also worked as a screenwriter in the early days of cinema. In addition to his film work, Grapewin also acted on stage and in radio dramas. He continued to act in films throughout the 1940s, with his final role coming in the 1952 film "Hans Christian Andersen". In addition to his entertainment career, Grapewin was an avid collector of antiques and artifacts, and his extensive collection was later donated to a museum.
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Edward Arnold
Edward Arnold (February 18, 1890 Lower East Side-April 26, 1956 Encino) a.k.a. Gunther Edward Arnold Schneider, Gunther Schneider or Ed Arnold was an American actor and author. He had three children, Edward Arnold Jr., Jane Arnold and Elizabeth Arnold.
Throughout his career, Edward Arnold appeared in over 150 films, often portraying authoritative figures such as businessmen, politicians, and judges. Some of his most notable film appearances include "You Can't Take It with You" (1938), "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" (1939), and "The Devil and Daniel Webster" (1941). He also had a successful stage career, performing in both Broadway productions and regional theater.
In addition to his acting career, Arnold was an accomplished author, publishing two books: his memoir "Lively Limericks and Lore" and a cookbook titled "Eating in Two or Three Languages". Arnold was also actively involved in politics and served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Screen Actors Guild.
At the time of his death in 1956 at the age of 66, Edward Arnold was remembered as a talented actor and respected member of the entertainment industry.
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Eddie Acuff
Eddie Acuff (June 3, 1903 Caruthersville-December 17, 1956 Hollywood) also known as Edward Acuff or Edward DeKalb Acuff was an American actor.
He appeared in over 400 films during his career, often playing small roles or minor characters. Acuff's career in Hollywood spanned over three decades and he was known for his comedic and character acting. Some of his more notable film roles include "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," "Sullivan's Travels," and "The Petrified Forest." Acuff was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to various animated films and television shows, including the role of Cookie in the animated series "Chip 'n Dale: Rescue Rangers." In addition to his acting career, Acuff was also an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting and fishing.
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Theodore Kosloff
Theodore Kosloff (January 22, 1882 Moscow-November 22, 1956 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Theodor Kosloff or Fyodor Mikhailovich Koslov was an American actor.
He was also a ballet dancer, choreographer, and silent film actor. Kosloff was a member of the Ballets Russes during their 1910 tour of the United States, and later became the chief choreographer for the Grand Opera of Monte Carlo. In Hollywood, he appeared in over 80 films, including "The Sheik" (1921) and "The Eagle" (1925), often playing exotic or villainous characters. After retiring from acting, Kosloff worked as a dance instructor until his death in 1956.
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Norman Kerry
Norman Kerry (June 16, 1894 Rochester-January 12, 1956 Los Angeles) also known as Arnold Kaiser or Norman Kaiser was an American actor.
He began his career in Hollywood during the silent film era and appeared in several films including "The Phantom of the Opera" (1925) starring Lon Chaney and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1923) starring Lon Chaney and Patsy Ruth Miller. Kerry also appeared in a number of films with actress Mary Pickford including "Sparrows" (1926) and "Little Annie Rooney" (1925).
Kerry's acting career continued to thrive after the transition to talkies and he appeared in supporting roles in films such as "The Jazz Singer" (1927) starring Al Jolson and "All Quiet on the Western Front" (1930) directed by Lewis Milestone.
Outside of acting, Kerry was also a writer and director. He wrote the screenplay for "The Lady from Nowhere" (1926) and directed the film "The Gauntlet" (1935).
Kerry was married to actress Doris Dawson from 1920 until his death in 1956. During his lifetime, he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the film industry.
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Henry Stephenson
Henry Stephenson (April 16, 1871 Grenada-April 24, 1956 San Francisco) also known as Herbert Brough Falcon Marshall, Harry Stephenson, Henry Stephenson Garroway, Henry S. Garroway, Harry Stephenson Garraway or Henry Stephenson Garraway was a British actor. He had one child, Anne Hall.
In his early career, Stephenson appeared on stage throughout England and made his Broadway debut in 1901. He later transitioned to film and appeared in over 100 movies throughout his career, including classics such as "Little Women," "David Copperfield," and "Mutiny on the Bounty."
Stephenson was known for playing aristocratic figures, and his refined British accent became his trademark. He often portrayed wise old mentors or judges, and was also known for his ability to play villains with a charming demeanor.
In addition to his acting career, Stephenson was also a writer and wrote several plays throughout his life. He was a member of the Garrick Club in London and was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1948 for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He passed away in San Francisco at the age of 85.
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Harry von Meter
Harry von Meter (March 20, 1871 Malta Bend-June 2, 1956 Sawtelle) a.k.a. Harry Von Meter, Harry Van Meteer, Harry V. Meter or Harry van Meter was an American actor.
He appeared in over 400 films between 1912 and 1947, often playing villainous characters in silent films. Von Meter was also known for his voice and recorded many songs and vocal performances throughout his career, including "My Darling" and "In Old Madrid." He later transitioned to character roles in talking pictures, and even worked as a voice actor in animated films. In addition to his work in film, von Meter was a well-respected stage actor and director, and continued to work in theater throughout his career.
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B. Reeves Eason
B. Reeves Eason (October 2, 1886 New York City-June 9, 1956 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. Breezy, William Reaves Eason, Breezy Eason, Reeves Easton, Reeves Eason, Reaves Eason, B. Reaves Eason, Breezy Easton, 'Breezy' Reeves Eason, B. Reaves 'Breezy' Eason, William Eason, Eason B. Reaves, "Breezy" Reeves Eason or William Reeves Eason was an American film director, actor and screenwriter. His child is called B. Reeves Eason, Jr..
Eason was a prolific director, directing over 300 films in various genres including westerns, serials, and action-adventure films. He began his film career as an actor in 1913, but quickly transitioned to directing in 1914. Eason was known for his innovative and daring stunt work which earned him the nickname "King of the Serials." He worked for various studios throughout his career, including Universal, Columbia, and Republic Pictures. Some of his most notable films include the serials "The Miracle Rider" and "The Lone Ranger" as well as the western "Riders of Destiny" starring John Wayne. Eason passed away in 1956 at the age of 69.
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Dell Henderson
Dell Henderson (July 5, 1883 St. Thomas-December 2, 1956 Hollywood) also known as Del Henderson, George Delbert Henderson, Arthur Buchanan or George Delbert "Dell" Henderson was a Canadian actor, screenwriter and film director.
He began his career as an actor in the early days of silent films and went on to write and direct over 200 films in his career. Henderson is best known for his collaborations with comedy legend Harold Lloyd, directing several of Lloyd's most successful films including "Safety Last!" and "Girl Shy". He also directed other notable actors such as Mabel Normand, Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle and W.C. Fields. In 1914, he co-founded the short-lived independent film company, the Comique Film Corporation, with Lloyd and producer J. A. Roach. Henderson retired from the film industry in 1940 and passed away in 1956 at the age of 73.
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Enrique Muiño
Enrique Muiño (July 5, 1881 Galicia-May 24, 1956 Buenos Aires) was an Argentine actor.
He began his career in Spain but gained his greatest success in Argentina, where he appeared in many films starting in the 1930s. Muiño is considered one of the pioneers of the Argentine film industry and is still remembered today as one of the country's greatest actors. He was known for his versatility and range, playing everything from heroic leads to villainous character roles. Muiño's career continued until his death in 1956, and he remains an important figure in Argentine film history.
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Harry Clark
Harry Clark (November 27, 2014 United States of America-February 28, 1956) was an American actor.
He appeared in over 75 films between 1915 and 1955. Clark began his acting career in silent films and continued to work in Hollywood throughout the transition to talkies. He often played small roles as a character actor in westerns, crime dramas, and comedies. Despite the large number of films he appeared in, Clark was never a major star, but he was a respected and dependable performer with a career that spanned over four decades.
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Stanley Blystone
Stanley Blystone (August 1, 1894 Eau Claire-July 16, 1956 Hollywood) also known as William Stanley Blystone, Stan Blystone, William S. Blystone, William Blystone or William Stanley was an American actor.
He appeared in over 500 films between 1924 and 1956, mostly in supporting roles. Blystone often played tough and burly characters such as police officers, thugs, and henchmen. He was known for his distinctive square jaw and gruff voice. Blystone worked frequently with comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, appearing in 40 of their films. He also played supporting roles in films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Great Dictator". Blystone passed away at the age of 61 due to a heart attack.
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Richard Stanton
Richard Stanton (October 8, 1876 Iowa-May 22, 1956 Los Angeles) was an American film director and actor.
Stanton began his career as an actor in silent films with the Essanay Studios in 1907. He then transitioned to directing, working on over 200 films in his career. He was known for his work on Westerns and wrote and directed several films in that genre. Stanton was also a pioneer of sound films, directing some of the first "talkies" in Hollywood. Despite his prolific career, many of his films have been lost or are considered "lost treasures" due to decay or destruction. Stanton died in 1956 in Los Angeles at the age of 79.
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Jack Curtis
Jack Curtis (May 28, 1880 San Francisco-March 16, 1956 Hollywood) a.k.a. Jonathan Curtis, John Archer Curtis, Master Jack Curtis, J. Curtis or John Curtis was an American actor. His child is called Laura Ann Curtis.
Jack Curtis had a career spanning over three decades, appearing in more than 120 films from 1917 to 1949. He started his acting career in silent films and made a successful transition into talking pictures. Curtis primarily played supporting roles in a variety of genres including westerns, dramas, and comedies. He also worked as a screenwriter, producer, and director, contributing to several films in different capacities.
Curtis was married to Maude Turner Gordon, a prominent stage actress, from 1910 until her death in 1925. Together they had two daughters, one of whom was Laura Ann Curtis. After his wife's death, Curtis never remarried and largely retired from acting in the early 1940s. He lived the rest of his life in relative anonymity until his death in 1956 at the age of 75.
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Jim Corey
Jim Corey (October 19, 1883 Nebraska-January 10, 1956 Burbank) a.k.a. James Warren Corey, James Corey, Jim Correy, Jim Covey, Arthur Harrison Corey or James Warren "Jim" Corey was an American actor.
He appeared in over 300 films between 1914 and 1954, primarily in Westerns. Corey was known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of characters, from villainous bandits to comical sidekicks. He worked with many legendary actors and directors throughout his career, including John Ford, Roy Rogers, and Gene Autry. In addition to his work in film, Corey was also a talented musician and played the violin, guitar, and mandolin. He was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame in 1975.
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Charles Le Moyne
Charles Le Moyne (June 27, 1880 Marshall-September 13, 1956 Hollywood) otherwise known as Charles Jonathan Lemon, Charles J. LeMoyne, Chas. Le Moyne, Charles J. Le Moyne, Charles LeMoyne, Chas. LeMoyne or Carl Jonathan Lemon was an American actor.
Le Moyne began his career in theater before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, often playing supporting roles in both silent and sound films. Some of his notable film credits include "No, No, Nanette" (1930), "It Happened One Night" (1934) and "The Awful Truth" (1937). He also had recurring roles on radio shows such as "The Bob Hope Show" and "Fibber McGee and Molly". In addition to his acting career, Le Moyne was also a playwright and director, with several of his plays produced on Broadway.
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Chester Clute
Chester Clute (February 18, 1891 Orange-April 2, 1956 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Chester L. Clute, Chet, Chester Lamont Clute or Chester Cluet was an American actor.
He was born in Orange, New Jersey and started his career as a vaudeville performer before moving on to the film industry. Clute appeared in over 200 films in his career and worked alongside notable actors such as Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn. He often played comedic roles but also had a talent for drama, earning critical acclaim for his performance in the 1945 film, "Mildred Pierce". Clute was a familiar face to audiences during the 1930s and 1940s and continued to act until his death in 1956 in Woodland Hills, California.
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Mitchell Lewis
Mitchell Lewis (June 26, 1880 Syracuse-August 24, 1956 Woodland Hills) also known as Mitchell J. Lewis was an American actor.
Lewis began his acting career in the theater before transitioning to film in the silent era. He appeared in over 200 films throughout his career, often playing the role of a villain due to his tall and imposing stature. Some of his notable film roles include Prince John in "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938) and Monsieur Fouquet in "The Three Musketeers" (1935).
In addition to his acting work, Lewis was also a noted inventor and held several patents for automotive and aircraft parts. He was also an accomplished pilot and flew missions in World War I. In his later years, he retired from acting and focused on his business ventures. Lewis passed away in 1956 at the age of 76.
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Theo Frenkel
Theo Frenkel (July 14, 1871 Rotterdam-September 20, 1956 Amsterdam) otherwise known as Theo Bouwmeester-Frenkel, Theo Bouwmeester, Theodorus Maurits Frenkel, Theo Frenkel Sr. or Frenkel was a Dutch screenwriter, film director and actor. His child is called Theo Frenkel Jr..
Frenkel began his acting career in the late 19th century, performing in Dutch theater productions. He also wrote screenplays for silent films and directed a few films in the early 20th century. His most notable roles were in the 1915 film "De vrouw met de zes slapers" and the 1921 film "Het geheim van Delft." Frenkel was known for his natural acting style and ability to convey emotion on screen. Later in his career, he focused more on writing and directing, but still made occasional appearances in films. In addition to his work in film, Frenkel also founded his own theater company and was a prominent figure in Dutch theater. He passed away in 1956 at the age of 85. Today, he is remembered as a pioneering figure in Dutch cinema and theater.
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Olav Riégo
Olav Riégo (April 21, 1891 Helsinki-December 25, 1956 Stockholm) also known as Carl Olav Riégo or Olav Riego was a Finnish actor.
Riégo got his start in theater in the 1910s and later transitioned into film in the 1930s. He appeared in several Finnish and Swedish films throughout his career, including the 1949 film "The Ghosts of Mariman" opposite Swedish actress Mai Zetterling. Riégo was known for his character work and versatile acting abilities. He passed away in Stockholm in 1956 at the age of 65.
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Hassard Short
Hassard Short (October 15, 1877 Edlington, Lincolnshire-October 9, 1956 Nice) also known as Hubert Hassard-Short or Hubert Edward Hassard Short was a British actor, theatre director, lighting designer and set designer.
Throughout his career, Hassard Short worked extensively in both England and the United States. He began his career as an actor and appeared in numerous stage productions, as well as a few films. He also worked as a theatre director and had a significant impact on the development of modern theatre in England.
In addition to his work in theatre, Hassard Short was also known for his work in lighting and set design. He was a pioneer in his field and helped to revolutionize the way that lighting was used in stage productions. His innovations included new ways of projecting light and using colored gels to create different moods and atmospheres on stage.
Hassard Short's contributions to the theatre industry were widely recognized throughout his career. He received numerous awards and honors for his work, and was highly respected by his peers. Today, he is remembered as a trailblazer in the world of theatre design and production, and his work continues to inspire and influence designers around the world.
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Eliot Makeham
Eliot Makeham (December 22, 1882 London-February 8, 1956 London) also known as Harold Elliott Makeham, Elliot Makeham or Eliott Makeham was an English actor.
He had a prolific career and is perhaps best known for his roles in British films during the 1930s and 1940s. Makeham appeared in over 150 films, including several notable productions such as David Lean's "Great Expectations" (1946) and Alexander Korda's "The Thief of Bagdad" (1940). He was also a prolific stage actor, performing in many West End productions including "The Rivals" and "Pygmalion". Makeham's acting career spanned over four decades, with his last film appearance in "It's Great to Be Young!" (1956) released posthumously after his death.
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Frederick Valk
Frederick Valk (June 10, 1895 Hamburg-July 23, 1956 London) a.k.a. Fritz Valk was a German actor.
Valk began his career in German theater, working with renowned directors such as Max Reinhardt and Bertolt Brecht. He also appeared in several German films during the 1920s and early 1930s. However, with the rise of the Nazi Party, Valk, who was openly gay, fled Germany and settled in London.
In London, Valk continued to work as an actor and appeared in a number of films, including the 1940 Alfred Hitchcock thriller "Foreign Correspondent" and the 1947 adaptation of "Nicholas Nickleby". Valk was known for his expressive and versatile performances, and was often cast in supporting roles that required nuanced characterizations.
Despite his success in London, Valk never forgot his roots and continued to perform in German-language plays throughout his career. He was also a vocal critic of the Nazi regime and used his platform as an actor to denounce fascism and promote tolerance and inclusion.
Valk died in London in 1956 at the age of 61, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of Germany's most talented and courageous actors.
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James Cousins
James Cousins (November 27, 1873 Belfast-February 20, 1956) was an Irish playwright, writer, actor and poet.
He was one of the leading figures of the Irish Literary Revival, a cultural movement that aimed to promote Irish language, literature and heritage. Cousins was a prolific writer, having published numerous plays, essays, poems, and literary translations throughout his career. He was deeply interested in spirituality and philosophy, and his works often reflected his personal beliefs and experiences. Cousins was also an active member of the Theosophical Society, a prominent spiritual organization that sought to bridge Eastern and Western philosophies. His notable works include "The Racing Lug", "The Land of the Living", and "The Story of the Night". Cousins' legacy continued to influence Irish literature and culture long after his death.
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Ralph Morgan
Ralph Morgan (July 6, 1883 New York City-June 11, 1956 New York City) also known as Raphael Kuhner Wuppermann or Raphael Wuppermann was an American actor. He had one child, Claudia Morgan.
Ralph Morgan was a prolific character actor who appeared in over 100 films throughout his career. He was known for his deep, commanding voice and his commanding presence on screen. Some of his notable film appearances include "Queen Christina" (1934) alongside Greta Garbo, "The Great Ziegfeld" (1936), and "Anchors Aweigh" (1945).
In addition to his successful acting career, Morgan was also a co-founder of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) in 1933, which aimed to improve working conditions and wages for actors. He served as the organization's first president from 1933-1935.
Morgan's legacy in the entertainment industry has been recognized by a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which he was awarded in 1960, four years after his death.
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Robert Newton
Robert Newton (June 1, 1905 Shaftesbury-March 25, 1956 Beverly Hills) was a British actor. He had three children, Sally Newton, Nicholas Newton and Kim Newton.
Newton's most famous role was that of Long John Silver in the 1950 film "Treasure Island". Although he appeared in over 40 films throughout his career, he struggled with alcohol addiction which affected his personal and professional relationships. Despite this, he was remembered by his colleagues as a talented and charismatic actor. Newton passed away at the age of 50 from a heart attack while on vacation in Beverly Hills.
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Francis L. Sullivan
Francis L. Sullivan (January 6, 1903 Wandsworth-November 19, 1956 New York City) also known as Francis Loftus Sullivan, Francis Sullivan, François Sully, Francis L.Sullivan or Francis Sullavan was an American actor.
He began his acting career on stage, appearing in various productions in London's West End and on Broadway. Some of his notable stage performances include the role of Mr. Justice Wainwright in Terence Rattigan's play "The Winslow Boy" and the role of Polonius in "Hamlet".
Sullivan also appeared in over 50 films throughout his career, often playing villainous characters. Some of his notable film roles include Mr. Bumble in "Oliver Twist", Lord Henry Wotton in "The Picture of Dorian Gray", and Cardinal Richelieu in "The Three Musketeers".
In addition to his work in theatre and film, Sullivan was also a prolific radio actor, having made numerous appearances in radio dramas and adaptations of literary works.
Sullivan's career was cut short when he died of a heart attack at the age of 53 while in New York City.
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Frank Birch
Frank Birch (December 5, 1889 London-February 14, 1956 London) also known as Francis Lyall Birch was an English actor.
Birch began his acting career on the stage in the early 1900s, performing in various productions in London's West End. In 1913, he made his film debut and went on to appear in over 100 films throughout his career. He was particularly well-known for his roles in British silent films, often playing dashing leading men. In the 1930s, he transitioned to talking films and continued to act in both British and American productions. Birch was known for his impeccable manners and gentlemanly demeanor, which earned him the nickname "The British Valentino." He continued to act until his death in 1956 at the age of 66.
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Jed Prouty
Jed Prouty (April 6, 1879 Boston-May 10, 1956 New York City) was an American actor.
He started his acting career in vaudeville before transitioning to films. He appeared in over 70 films between 1914 and 1952, often playing comedic roles. Prouty was best known for his roles in the "Jones Family" film series, in which he played the patriarch of a large family. He was also a regular cast member on the radio show "The Aldrich Family" in the 1940s. In addition to acting, Prouty was also involved in real estate and owned several apartment buildings in California.
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Guy Kibbee
Guy Kibbee (March 6, 1882 El Paso-May 24, 1956 East Islip) also known as Guy Bridges Kibbee was an American actor.
He began his career as a vaudeville performer and made his way to Broadway before transitioning to film. Kibbee appeared in over 100 films during his career, often playing comedic side characters. Some of his most notable films include "42nd Street," "Captain January," and "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington." He was often typecast as a blustery, good-natured businessman or politician. Kibbee also had a successful career on radio, with regular roles on shows such as "The Fred Allen Show" and "The Eddie Cantor Show." He passed away in 1956 at the age of 74.
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Christian Rub
Christian Rub (April 13, 1886 Passau-April 14, 1956 Santa Barbara) otherwise known as Chris Rube, Christian Rube or Chriss Rubb was a German actor and voice actor.
He began his career on stage in Germany before immigrating to the United States in 1920. Rub appeared in over 100 Hollywood films throughout his career, often playing ethnic character roles due to his European heritage. Some of his notable roles include the Stork in the Disney classic "Dumbo" and as the Innkeeper in the film "Destry Rides Again" starring James Stewart and Marlene Dietrich. In addition to his film work, Rub also had a successful career as a voice actor, lending his voice to various radio programs and animated productions. Rub passed away in Santa Barbara, California in 1956 at the age of 70.
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Edward Cooper
Edward Cooper (June 28, 1883 Bolton-July 15, 1956 Surrey) was a British actor.
He appeared in over 200 films during his career, which spanned from the silent era to the 1950s. Cooper also worked as a screenwriter, contributing to scripts for films such as "Sanders of the River" (1935) and "The Return of Frank James" (1940). In addition to his work in film, Cooper was a prolific stage actor, performing in many West End productions. He was a versatile performer, equally adept at drama and comedy. Cooper's notable film roles include Mr. Brownlow in "Oliver Twist" (1948) and Dr. McFarlane in "Green for Danger" (1946).
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