Herbert Langley was an English actor and opera singer who is best known for his roles in ‘The Wonderful Story’, ‘Chu-Chin-Chow’, and various silent opera films. He made significant contributions to both opera and early cinema throughout his career.
Personal and Family Life
Born in Ramsgate, Kent, England, in 1888, Herbert George Langley showed early talent in music and performance. He became a member of the British National Opera Company, performing in popular operas such as ‘Barbiere di Siviglia’ and ‘Marriage of Figaro’. Herbert was also the father of Bryan Langley, who worked as a cinematographer.
Career Highlights
Langley began his film career in the 1920s, making a notable debut in the silent film ‘The Wonderful Story’ in 1922. He gained fame for his role as Abou Hassan in the 1923 film ‘Chu-Chin-Chow’. Throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, he participated in a series of short silent opera films that condensed operas for cinema. He later appeared in several talkies, with his final film, ‘Pal O’Mine’, released in 1936.
Death and Legacy
Herbert Langley passed away on September 13, 1967, in Haringey, London, England, at the age of 79. His work in both opera and film left a lasting impact on the performing arts, particularly in the early days of cinema. Langley’s contributions helped pave the way for future performers in musical films and operatic cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Number Seventeen | 1932-07-18 | The Guard on Train (uncredited) |
| Letting in the Sunshine | 1933-02-01 | Foreman |
| The Wonderful Story | 1922-05-05 | Robert Martin |
| Flames of Passion | 1922-11-01 | Arthur Watson |
| The Queen’s Affair | 1934-03-01 | |
| Chu-Chin-Chow | 1924-05-15 | Abou Hassan |
| Southern Love | 1924-01-01 |