Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was one of Hollywood s most pivotal stars. He lived an interesting life both in his films and behind the camera. He is most recognized as the icon of the silent film era, mostly as the little tramp ; the man with the toothbrush moustache, bowler hat, bamboo cane, and a funny walk. He was born in London in 1889 to music hall-performing parents. After his parents split, he and his half brother spent time in and out of charity homes and workhouses between their mother's bouts of insanity. He started acting at 8, and began to tour with a vaudeville troupe that visited America. He never looked back. In 1913 in California, he signed on with Keystone Studios' popular comedy director Mack Sennett. While at Keystone, Chaplin appeared in and directed 35 films, starring as the Little Tramp in nearly all. In November 1914 he left Keystone and signed on at Essanay, where he made 15 films. In 1916, he signed on at Mutual and made 12 films. In June 1917 Chaplin signed up with First National Studios, after which he built Chaplin Studios. In 1919 he and Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford and D.W. Griffith formed United Artists (UA). Chaplin was married four times and had a total of 11 children. He is considered one of the greatest filmmakers in the history of cinema.