Roy Emerton was a British actor who is best known for his roles in The Triumph of Sherlock Holmes, Lorna Doone, and The Young Mr. Pitt. He had a distinguished career in film and theater, and he became recognized for his imposing presence and powerful voice.
Personal and Family Life
Roy Emerton was born Hugh Fitzroy Emerton on October 9, 1892, in Burford, Oxfordshire, England. He married Catherine Lacey in 1936, and they remained together until his death in 1944. Before becoming an actor, he worked various jobs, including a fireman and a cowboy, showcasing his diverse background.
Career
Emerton had a strong presence on the Shakespearean stage in London before transitioning to film. He gained fame for playing tough and menacing characters, such as the villainous Boss McGinty in The Triumph of Sherlock Holmes. Notably, he served in the military during World War I, experiencing a different kind of life away from the stage and screen.
Death and Legacy
Roy Emerton passed away on November 30, 1944, in Wembley, London, just eight days after the release of his final film, Henry V. His impactful roles and unique voice have left a lasting impression in the film industry. He is remembered as a versatile actor who brought depth to the characters he portrayed.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Case of the Frightened Lady | 1940-09-28 | Gilder |
| The Sign of Four: Sherlock Holmes’ Greatest Case | 1932-05-12 | The Tattooed Man |
| Lorna Doone | 1934-12-09 | Carver Doone |
| Big Fella | 1938-01-03 | Spike |
| The Thief of Bagdad | 1940-02-19 | Jailer |
| Love Story | 1944-11-20 | Cornish Fisherman |
| The Drum | 1938-09-29 | Wafadar |
| Everything Is Thunder | 1936-09-30 | Kostner |
| Doctor Syn | 1937-08-25 | Capt. Howard Collyer, R.N. |
| Q Planes | 1939-02-21 | Viking First Mate |
| Tudor Rose | 1936-09-01 | Squire |
| Busman’s Honeymoon | 1940-07-22 | Noakes |
| The Great Barrier | 1937-01-02 | Moody |
| It Happened in Paris | 1935-06-30 | Gendarme |
| The Young Mr. Pitt | 1942-09-21 | Dan Mendoza |
| Welcome, Mr Washington | 1944-05-18 | Selby |
| Time Flies | 1944-05-08 | Capt. John Smith |
| Shadows | 1931-03-31 | Captain |
| That Night in London | 1932-08-01 | Captain Paulson |
| Java Head | 1934-07-31 | Broadrick |
| The Lash | 1934-10-21 | Steve |
| The Man in Grey | 1943-08-06 | Gamekeeper (uncredited) |
| Old Mother Riley’s Circus | 1941-12-10 | Santley (circus owner) |
| Convict 99 | 1938-09-26 | John Benjamin |
| The Triumph of Sherlock Holmes | 1935-03-24 | Boss McGinty |