Kid Broad was an American actor best known for his roles in films such as “Wanted: A Husband,” “Love in a Hurry,” and “The Bowery.” Born William M. Thomas in England, he made a name for himself both in the boxing ring and the film industry.
Personal and Family Life
Kid Broad was born on March 3, 1878, in Cornwall, England. Before his acting career, he was a professional boxer, where he achieved significant success in over 100 matches. Little is known about his married life, but reports indicate that he and his wife both appeared in the film “Frontier of the Stars” in 1921, marking her acting debut.
Career Highlights
Initially recognized in the boxing world, Kid Broad transitioned to acting after being discovered by Douglas Fairbanks. Throughout his career, he appeared in numerous films, often portraying tough characters. Despite his success in movies, he was known to be modest about his talents, recommending other actors for roles he felt they were better suited for.
Death and Legacy
Kid Broad passed away on June 11, 1947, in New York City, after suffering from hardening of the arteries. His death went largely unnoticed, with only six people attending his funeral. He left behind a legacy as a notable figure in early cinema, remembered for both his boxing and acting careers.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| The Bowery | 1933 | Pug (uncredited) |
| Street of Sin | 1928 | Mug (uncredited) |
| The Man Worthwhile | 1921 | A Lifer |
| Easy to Get | 1920 | Thaddeus Burr |
| Wanted: A Husband | 1919 | Andy Dunn |
| Love in a Hurry | 1919 | Shorty |
| Once to Every Man | 1918 | Sutton |
| A Romance of the Underworld | 1918 | Fighter |
| The Great Secret | 1917 | N/A |