Tod Slaughter was an English actor who is best known for his roles in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, The Face at the Window, and Maria Marten, or The Murder in the Red Barn. He gained fame for portraying villainous characters in Victorian melodramas that were later adapted into films.
Personal and Family Life
Tod Slaughter was born as Norman Carter Slaughter on March 19, 1885, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England. He was married to Jenny Lynn from September 4, 1912, until his death on February 19, 1956. Slaughter was known for his powerful performances on stage, which began in 1905, establishing him as a popular figure in the theater circuit.
Career
Slaughter became famous for playing excessive villains in Victorian dramas, touring many productions around England. His acting style was characterized by a dramatic flair and demonic laughter that perfectly matched the melodramatic essence of his roles. Many of his performances were filmed cheaply in the 30s and 40s, showcasing his unique talent and creating a lasting impression of Victorian cinema.
Death and Legacy
Tod Slaughter died on February 19, 1956, from coronary thrombosis in Derby, England. His contributions to Victorian drama and film left an indelible mark, and he is remembered for his compelling portrayals of villainy. Slaughter’s films continue to be admired by fans of classic horror and melodrama.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Face at the Window | 1939-04-07 | Chevalier Lucio del Gardo |
| Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street | 1936-03-01 | Sweeney Todd |
| Crimes at the Dark House | 1940-03-01 | The False Sir Percival Glyde |
| Maria Marten, or The Murder in the Red Barn | 1935-08-18 | Squire William Corder |
| It’s Never Too Late to Mend | 1937-03-01 | Squire John Meadows |
| The Crimes of Stephen Hawke | 1936-04-30 | Stephen Hawke |
| The Greed of William Hart | 1948-03-01 | William Hart |
| The Ticket of Leave Man | 1937-10-01 | The Tiger |
| Murder at the Grange | 1952-12-01 | |
| Sexton Blake and the Hooded Terror | 1938-02-01 | Michael Larron |
| The Curse of the Wraydons | 1946-12-16 | Philip Wraydon |
| Song of the Road | 1937-08-08 | Dan Lorenzo |
| King of the Underworld | 1952-07-05 | Terence Reilly |
| Darby and Joan | 1937-02-28 | Mr. Templeton |
| London After Dark | 1926-01-01 | |
| Bothered by a Beard | 1945-06-01 | Sweeney Todd |
| Puzzle Corner Number Fourteen | 1954-08-07 | Sweeney Todd |
| Tod Slaughter at Home | 1936-10-12 | Tod Slaughter |
| Pots of Plots | 1938-01-01 | Tod Slaughter |
| A Ghost for Sale | 1952-12-01 | Caretaker |
| Spring-Heeled Jack | 1950-01-16 | Philip Wraydon |