John Gilbert (actor)

John Gilbert (born John Cecil Pringle; July 10, 1897 – January 9, 1936) was an American actor, screenwriter and director. He rose to fame during the silent era and became a popular leading man known as "The Great Lover". His breakthrough came in 1925 with his starring roles in The Merry Widow and The Big Parade. At the height of his career, Gilbert rivaled Rudolph Valentino as a box office draw.

Gilbert's career declined precipitously when silent pictures gave way to talkies, persistently attributed to his "squeaky voice". This has been called into question in later years, with his diction in speaking roles and studio interference providing alternative explanations. Gilbert is often cited as a high-profile example of an actor who was unsuccessful in making the transition to sound films.