Sunny Jim McKeen was an American actor who is best known for his performances in “The Newlyweds’ Christmas Party,” “Baby Talks,” and “Snookums’ Tooth.” He was a child star in the late 1920s known for his roles in early sound shorts.
Personal and Family Life
Sunny Jim McKeen was born Lawrence David McKeen Jr. on September 1, 1924, in Los Angeles, California. He had a sister, Merry Mae McKeen, who was also an actress. By the age of two, he was already involved in filmmaking, appearing in advertisements and shorts, making significant strides in his early career.
Career Highlights
McKeen gained fame as a child actor, participating in 39 shorts titled “Newlyweds and Their Baby” during the late 1920s. He later starred in his own series of sound shorts, competing with other child actors like Shirley Temple and Jackie Cooper. A candy bar was even named after him at the height of his popularity, featuring his likeness on the package.
Death and Legacy
Sunny Jim McKeen tragically passed away on April 2, 1933, due to blood poisoning, at the young age of 8. His early career and untimely death left a lasting impression, and he is remembered as a bright talent in early Hollywood.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Newlyweds’ Christmas Party | 1927-12-05 | Snookums |
| Baby Talks | 1929-09-11 | Sunny Jim |
| She’s a He | 1930-06-04 | |
| Snookums’ Tooth | 1926-09-22 | Snookums |