Ben Turpin
Ben Turpin | |
|---|---|
Turpin in the 1920s | |
| Born | Bernard Turpin September 19, 1869 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Died | July 1, 1940 (aged 70) Santa Monica, California, U.S. |
| Resting place | Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Glendale, California |
| Spouse(s) |
Carrie Lemieux
(m. 1907; died 1925)Babette Dietz (m. 1926) |
| Comedy career | |
| Years active | 1907–1940 |
| Medium |
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| Genre | Silent films |
Bernard "Ben" Turpin (September 19, 1869 – July 1, 1940) was an American comedian and actor, best remembered for his work in silent films. His trademarks were his cross-eyed appearance and adeptness at vigorous physical comedy. A sometime vaudeville performer, he was "discovered" for film while working as the janitor for Essanay Studios in Chicago. Turpin went on to work with notable performers such as Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy, and was a part of the Mack Sennett studio team. He is believed to have been the first filmed "victim" of the pie in the face gag. When sound came to films, Turpin chose to retire, having invested profitably in real estate, although he did do occasional cameos.