Max Linder was a French-American actor who is best known for his roles in silent films like “Seven Years Bad Luck,” “Max in a Taxi,” and “Max Wants a Divorce.” He is considered a pioneering figure in the world of silent comedy and significantly influenced comedians like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton.
Personal and Family Life
Max Linder was born Gabriel-Maximilien Leuvielle on December 16, 1883, in Saint-Loubès, France. He married Jeanne Peters on August 1, 1923, and they had one child together. Tragically, Jeanne passed away just two years later, which deeply affected Max.
Career
Linder began his career in French theatre before making his film debut in 1905. He quickly gained fame for his character, “Max,” a charming dandy in a silk hat. By 1912, he was the highest-paid film star in the world, earning one million francs, and he transitioned into directing films in addition to acting.
Death and Legacy
Max Linder died on November 1, 1925, in Paris, France, in a tragic suicide pact with his wife following her death. Despite being overshadowed by later comedians, his influence on silent film comedy is still recognized today, and many of his works are considered classics.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Max Toreador | 1913-09-11 | |
| Max fait du ski | 1910-07-14 | Max |
| Max n’aime pas les chats | 1913-09-26 | |
| Seven Years Bad Luck | 1921-02-06 | Max |
| Max et son chien Dick | 1912-02-09 | Max |
| Max in a Taxi | 1917-04-23 | Himself |
| Max Wants a Divorce | 1917-03-26 | Max |
| Max entre deux feux | 1917-05-04 | |
| La Petite Rosse | 1909-10-22 | |
| L’anglais tel que Max le parle | 1914-03-06 | Max |