Harry Earles German dwarf actor Date of Birth: 03.04.1902 Country: Germany

Biography of Harry Earles

German actor-dwarf Harry Earles, born Kurt Fritz Schneider on April 3, 1902, in Stolpen, Germany, is perhaps best known for his role in the movie "The Unholy Three" directed by Tod Browning. However, his career in Hollywood was not very long. Earles dedicated most of his time to circus performances, where he excelled. He was part of the quartet of dwarfs known as "The Doll Family," which included his sisters Emma and Hilda Schneider.

The Doll Family started performing in Germany and later caught the attention of American entrepreneur Bert W. Earles, who invited Harry and his sister Gracie to work in the United States. The duo became known as "Hansel and Gretel" and toured the country with the "101 Ranch Wild West Show." Later, two more dwarfs from the Schneider family, Daisy and Tiny, joined them in the United States.

As a quartet, they continued to perform with the "Ringling Brothers" and "Barnum and Bailey Circus," showcasing various acts such as singing, dancing, and even horseback riding. Harry Earles became one of the most famous dwarf actors in Hollywood. After the death of the Earles family in the 1930s, the quartet renamed themselves "The Doll Family" and continued to perform.

Harry Earles was the first of the four siblings to break into the film industry. He played the role of Tweedledee in Tod Browning's film "The Unholy Three" alongside Lon Chaney. The film gained recognition for its absurd plot and Lon Chaney's exceptional performance. Harry's distinctive appearance and talent played a significant role in the success of the film.

In 1930, Harry reprised his role in the sound version of the film, working again with Lon Chaney, this time directed by Jack Conway. The Doll Family also appeared in several Laurel and Hardy comedies. In 1932, Harry and Daisy received lead roles in the cult film "Freaks" produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. They later played munchkins in "The Wizard of Oz" with Judy Garland.

Although the Doll Family occasionally received film roles, their career in the film industry was not very prominent. They continued to perform in circuses and various shows. After the Ringling Circus was sold in 1956, they joined the Christiani Circus before retiring in 1958. The Doll Family had accumulated a considerable sum of money during their decades-long circus career, allowing them to live comfortably in Sarasota, Florida.

Harry Earles passed away in 1985, and his sister Tiny Doll, the last surviving member of the family, died in 2004. They left behind a legacy as notable performers in the entertainment industry and the circus world.