King Baggot was an American actor who is best known for Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Ivanhoe, and Tumbleweeds. He was a prominent figure in early cinema, transitioning from stage to screen.
Personal and Family Life
Born William King Baggot on November 7, 1879, in St. Louis, Missouri, he moved to New York City to pursue a career on Broadway. He had a marriage to Ruth Constantine from 1912 until their divorce in 1930, with whom he had one child, King Robert Baggot, born in 1914. Baggot had a tall and robust appearance, which contributed to his popularity in both heroic and villainous roles.
Career Highlights
Beginning his acting career in films in 1911, King quickly gained fame for his versatility, playing multiple roles in films like Shadows (1914). He also ventured into directing, helming several films throughout the 1920s, though he frequently returned to acting afterward. He appeared in over 340 films and enjoyed a lengthy career despite the sound revolution in film.
Death and Legacy
King Baggot passed away on July 11, 1948, from a stroke in Los Angeles, California. His contributions to both acting and directing in the silent film era have left a lasting impact on the film industry. He was among the first stars to receive formal billing in promotional materials.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Come Live with Me | 1941-01-31 | Doorman |
| Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde | 1913-03-06 | Dr. Henry Jekyll / Mr. Hyde |
| Girl of the Rio | 1932-01-15 | Maitre d’hotel, Purple Pigeon Cafe |
| Sweet Memories | 1911-03-27 | Edward Jackson |
| Ivanhoe | 1913-09-22 | Wilfred of Ivanhoe |
| Tumbleweeds | 1925 | Director |
| Police Court | 1932-02-19 | Harry Field |
| 3 Kids and a Queen | 1935-10-21 | Druggist |
| The Secret Heart | 1946-12-25 | Man at Graduation Ceremony |
| Fragements: Surviving Pieces of Lost Films | 2011-04-03 | Himself (archive footage) |