Richard Barthelmess was an American actor who is best known for Broken Blossoms, Way Down East, and Tol’able David. He was a prominent figure during the silent film era and made a significant impact in early Hollywood.
Personal and Family Life
Richard Barthelmess was born on May 9, 1895, in New York City to a theatrical family, where his mother was an actress. He married twice, first to Mary Hay from 1920 to 1927, with whom he had one child, and later to Jessica Stewart Sargent, whom he married in 1928. Barthelmess showed a strong passion for the arts from an early age and began his acting career in college but left to pursue it full-time.
Career Highlights
Richard Barthelmess started his film career in 1916 with a role offered by actress Alla Nazimova. He quickly gained fame after working with director D.W. Griffith, especially known for his roles alongside Lillian Gish in films like Broken Blossoms and Way Down East. Although he was a star in silent films, he struggled with the transition to sound films, resulting in fewer prominent roles as his career progressed.
Death and Legacy
Richard Barthelmess passed away on August 17, 1963, from throat cancer in Southampton, New York. He is remembered for his contributions to early cinema, being one of the founding members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. His performances, especially in silent films, left a lasting impression in Hollywood history.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Broken Blossoms | 1919-05-13 | Cheng Huan |
| Way Down East | 1920-09-03 | David Bartlett |
| Tol’able David | 1921-12-31 | David Kinemon |
| The Patent Leather Kid | 1927-09-01 | Patent Leather Kid |
| Only Angels Have Wings | 1939-05-15 | Bat Mac Pherson |
| The Noose | 1928-01-29 | Nickie Elkins |
| The Cabin in the Cotton | 1932-09-26 | Marvin Blake |
| The Dawn Patrol | 1930-07-10 | Dick Courtney |
| Heroes for Sale | 1933-06-17 | Tom Holmes |
| The Last Flight | 1931-08-29 | Cary Lockwood |