Schlitze

Schlitze was an American actor best known for his roles in Freaks and Island of Lost Souls. He was known as “The Pinhead” due to his condition, microcephaly.

Personal and Family Life

Schlitze’s actual birth date and name are not known, but he was born on September 10, 1901. He suffered from microcephaly and was exhibited as a sideshow performer for most of his life. Despite being diagnosed with mental retardation, he displayed a relatively developed intellect for his condition, enjoying activities like singing, dancing, and playing games.

Career

Throughout his career, Schlitze was often presented as a female, which made it easier for him to manage his needs while dressed in dresses. He gained some fame for his role in the movie Freaks, where his lines were largely incomprehensible, yet he managed to leave a lasting impression. In the late 1930s, after a long career in the sideshow, he was placed in a mental institution, but was later revived by promoter Sam Alexander and continued to perform.

Death and Legacy

Schlitze passed away on September 24, 1971, in Los Angeles, California, due to pneumonia, living up to the age of 70, which is long for someone with his condition. After his death, he was buried in a pauper’s grave without a marker until fans raised money to provide him with a gravestone. His legacy continues, including a song titled “Pinhead” by the band The Ramones, which is inspired by him.

Filmography