Leon Errol was an Australian-American actor who is best known for his roles in “Mexican Spitfire,” “The Girl from Mexico,” and “Mexican Spitfire’s Elephant.” He had a successful career in both film and theater, especially known for his comedic performances.
Personal and Family Life
Born on July 3, 1881, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, Leon Errol was originally named Leonce Errol Simms. He was married to Stella Bertha Nelson, also known as Stella Chatelaine, a dancer, from 1906 until her death in 1946. Errol had a passion for entertainment that began early in his life, and he often performed on Broadway as an actor and director before moving into films.
Career
Leon Errol’s career spanned several decades, primarily in comedy. He became well known in Hollywood for his two-reelers starting in 1933 and had memorable roles in the “Mexican Spitfire” series alongside actress Lupe Velez. Despite a rocky start in the U.S. when his first performance was met with audience disapproval, he quickly found success and became a beloved figure in Hollywood comedy films.
Death and Legacy
Leon Errol passed away on October 12, 1951, in Hollywood, California, due to a heart attack. He was buried at Forest Lawn Glendale in the Eventide Section. Errol is remembered for his contributions to film comedy and his unique talent that entertained audiences for years.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Spooky Wooky | 1950-12-01 | |
| Alice in Wonderland | 1933-12-18 | Uncle Gilbert |
| We’re Not Dressing | 1934-04-27 | Uncle Hubert |
| The Noose Hangs High | 1948-04-05 | Julius Caesar ‘J.C.’ McBride |
| The Invisible Man’s Revenge | 1944-06-09 | Herbert Higgins |
| Mexican Spitfire Chases the Moon | 1941-11-21 | Uncle Matt Lindsay / Lord Basil Epping |
| The Girl from Mexico | 1939-06-01 | Matthew Lindsay |
| Mexican Spitfire | 1940-01-12 | Uncle Matt Lindsay / Lord Basil Epping |
| The Mexican Spitfire’s Baby | 1941-11-28 | Matt Lindsay / Lord Basil Epping |
| Mexican Spitfire’s Elephant | 1942-09-17 | Uncle Matt Lindsay / Lord Basil Epping |
| Joe Palooka in Humphrey Takes a Chance | 1950-06-04 | Knobby Walsh |
| What a Blonde | 1945-02-03 | F. Farrington Fowler |
| Coronado | 1935-11-27 | Otto Wray |