Adolphe Menjou was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Paths of Glory,” “A Farewell to Arms,” and “A Star Is Born.” He became famous for his elegant style and debonair charm, which made him a popular figure in Hollywood during his career.
Personal and Family Life
Born on February 18, 1890, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Adolphe Menjou was raised in a family with a diverse background. His mother was Irish and a distant cousin of writer James Joyce, while his father was French and managed a chain of restaurants. Adolphe married three times, with his final marriage to actress Verree Teasdale lasting from 1934 until his death in 1963. They had one adopted son together named Peter.
Career Beginnings
Menjou began his career in show business after a few years of struggle, taking on various jobs in vaudeville and film. He gained significant recognition in 1921, landing notable roles in films such as “The Faith Healer” and “The Sheik.” His suave image quickly earned him a reputation as a leading man in the silent film era, and he became a sought-after actor at Paramount Pictures.
Death and Legacy
Adolphe Menjou passed away on October 29, 1963, after a long battle with hepatitis in Beverly Hills, California. His distinctive style, charm, and a keen sense for fashion made him a memorable figure in the film industry. Despite facing some controversies later in life, his contributions to cinema continue to be appreciated, and he is remembered for his impact on classic Hollywood.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
Paths of Glory | 1957-10-25 | Gen. George Broulard |
A Farewell to Arms | 1932-12-08 | Major Rinaldi |
A Star Is Born | 1937-04-27 | Oliver Niles |
Pollyanna | 1960-05-19 | Mr. Pendergast |
My Dream Is Yours | 1949-04-15 | Thomas Hutchins |
Morning Glory | 1933-08-18 | Louis Easton |
The Sniper | 1952-05-09 | Frank Kafka |
The Tall Target | 1951-08-17 | Caleb Jeffers |
State of the Union | 1948-04-30 | Jim Conover |
Across the Wide Missouri | 1951-10-12 | Pierre |