Cyril Gardner was an American actor, editor, writer, and director who is best known for “The Drummer of the 8th.” He was born Cyril Gottlieb on May 30, 1898, in Paris, France, and began acting in films at a young age.
Personal and Family Life
Cyril Gardner changed his name due to his German heritage during World War I, seeking to avoid any potential backlash. He was 5 feet 6 inches tall and had a promising start to his film career. However, personal challenges affected his professional path.
Career
Gardner got his first major role in the film “The Drummer of the 8th,” released in 1913, where he portrayed the character Billy Durand. Unfortunately, a skin infection later disfigured his face, which led him to step away from acting and transition to working behind the scenes in various capacities.
Death and Legacy
Cyril Gardner passed away on December 30, 1942, in Hollywood, California, from a heart attack. Though his acting career was cut short, he left a mark in the film industry through his later work in editing, directing, and writing.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Drummer of the 8th | 1913-05-28 | Billy Durand – the Drummer |