Joe Roberts was an American actor who is best known for Our Hospitality, The Primitive Lover, and Three Ages. He was born on February 2, 1871, in Albany, New York, and passed away on October 28, 1923, in Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Joe Roberts was married to Lillian Stuart Feld Roberts until her death in 1918, and they had one child together. He later married Nina Mildred Straw Shannon, with whom he had two children. Roberts was known for his towering height at 6 feet 3 inches, earning him the nickname “Big Joe.” He also had a close friendship with the Keaton family, spending summers together in Michigan.
Career
Roberts was a prominent actor in silent films and appeared in many of Buster Keaton’s works, being known as Keaton’s favored villain. He showcased his comedic talents in various roles, often playing a contrast to Keaton’s smaller stature. Tragically, Roberts suffered a stroke while filming Our Hospitality but insisted on completing his role.
Death and Legacy
Joe Roberts died from complications after two strokes on October 28, 1923. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances in silent films, especially his collaborations with Buster Keaton. He remains a notable figure in the history of American cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Our Hospitality | 1923-11-19 | Joseph Canfield |
| One Week | 1920-08-29 | Piano Mover (uncredited) |
| The Paleface | 1922-01-01 | The Indian Chief |
| Three Ages | 1923-09-24 | The Girl’s Father |
| The Blacksmith | 1922-07-21 | Blacksmith |
| Convict 13 | 1920-10-27 | The Crazed Prisoner |
| Cops | 1922-03-11 | Police Chief (uncredited) |
| Day Dreams | 1922-11-27 | The Mayor |
| Hard Luck | 1921-03-14 | Lizard Lip Luke |
| My Wife’s Relations | 1922-05-15 | Brother |
| The High Sign | 1921-04-18 | Leader of Buzzards |
| The Scarecrow | 1920-11-07 | Farmhand (uncredited) |
| Neighbors | 1920-12-12 | Her Father (uncredited) |
| The Haunted House | 1921-02-21 | Bank Cashier |
| The Goat | 1921-05-15 | Police Chief |
| The Play House | 1921-10-26 | Actor / Stage Manager (uncredited) |
| The Frozen North | 1922-08-28 | The Driver |
| The Electric House | 1922-10-01 | Millionaire |
| The Love Nest | 1923-03-01 | Captain of the Whaler |
| The Misfit | 1924-03-22 | The Drill Master |
| The Primitive Lover | 1922-04-30 | ‘Roaring’ Bill Rivers |
| Little Lord Fauntleroy | 1921-09-15 | Buzz Saw Brannigan (uncredited) |