Hilliard Karr, also known as “Fat” Karr, was an American actor and comedian best known for his roles in silent films and comedies like Heavy Love, The Circus Cyclone, and the series A Ton of Fun. He gained fame during the silent film era as a member of a trio of heavy comedians.
Personal and Family Life
Born on January 20, 1899, in Houston, Texas, Hilliard Karr showed an early interest in entertainment. His weight was a defining characteristic, leading him to be part of comedic teams in films. Although little is known about his family life, his career was marked by collaboration with fellow comedians and a shared experience in the film industry.
Career
Karr’s film career began in 1919 with A Dumbwaiter Scandal. He quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the comedy genre, known for his slapstick performances. He became part of the “Ton of Fun” team, which included other overweight comedians, creating a series of humorous shorts that were popular during the silent film era.
Death and Legacy
Hilliard Karr passed away on October 5, 1945, in Dallas, Texas, at the age of 45. His work in silent films has left a legacy of laughs, particularly noted for the unique brand of humor he brought to the screen as part of the “Ton of Fun” series. His contribution to early comedy continues to be appreciated by film historians and enthusiasts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Galloping Ghosts | 1926-01-01 | |
| Heavy Love | 1926-02-21 | |
| A Deep Sea Panic | 1924-09-28 | |
| How High Is Up? | 1927-06-26 | |
| Standing Pat | 1928-07-08 | |
| Back Fire | 1926-08-07 | Pete |
| The General | 1926-12-25 | Soldier (uncredited) |
| Human Hearts | 1922-08-19 | Seth Bascom |
| The Big Shot | 1931-12-31 | Rodney, the Garage Boy |
| Love In The Desert | 1929-01-27 | Briggs |
| Big Stakes | 1922-08-12 | Sidekick Skinny Fargo (as H.S. Karr) |
| The Man from Broadway | 1924-10-01 | |
| The Circus Cyclone | 1925-10-04 | Fatty |
| Tailoring | 1925-09-04 | Frank Alexander |
| All Out | 1925-05-12 | |
| Honeymoon Feet | 1926-04-18 | |
| Old Tin Sides | 1927-03-06 | Hilliard |
| The Heavy Parade | 1926-05-15 | Fattie |
| 3 Missing Links | 1927-12-11 | Fattie |
| Three Of A Kind | 1926-06-12 | Fattie |
| Three Wise Goofs | 1925-10-03 | Fattie |
| A Dangerous Peach | 1925-02-18 | |
| What an Eye | 1924-10-08 | Buddy’s Brother – the Reporter |
| Fred’s Fictitious Foundling | 1918-06-07 | Fatty Filbert |
