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Richard ArlenAmerican film and television actor
Date of Birth: 01.09.1899
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Richard Arlen: A Hollywood Icon
- Breakthrough Role in "Wings"
- Starring Alongside Gary Cooper
- Marriage and Personal Life
- Post-Silent Era and Television
- Hearing Loss and Comeback
- Retirement and Legacy
Richard Arlen: A Hollywood Icon
Early Life and CareerBorn Sylvanus Richard Van Mattimore in St. Paul, Minnesota, on September 1, 1899, Richard Arlen was the youngest of five children. After briefly attending the University of Pennsylvania, he served as a pilot in the Canadian Royal Air Force during World War I. Upon returning to St. Paul, he worked as a sports club manager before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting.
Breakthrough Role in "Wings"
After a motorcycle accident on the Paramount Pictures lot, Arlen secured a contract with the studio. His breakout role came in 1927, when director William A. Wellman cast him in the romantic melodrama "Wings". The film's success and Arlen's portrayal of a cynical war veteran established him as a leading man.
Starring Alongside Gary Cooper
Arlen collaborated with Wellman on several more films, including "The Virginian"(1929), where he played second fiddle to rising star Gary Cooper. He also reunited with Cooper in "Wings", where they shared a memorable scene.
Marriage and Personal Life
Arlen met his first wife, Jobyna Ralston, on the set of "Wings". They had one child, Richard Arlen Jr. The couple resided in Toluca Lake, California, among the most prominent actors of the time. Arlen's subsequent marriages to Mary Thurman and June Marlowe remained childless.
Post-Silent Era and Television
Despite losing his Paramount contract in 1935, Arlen continued to work sporadically. In 1939, he signed with Universal and appeared in mostly action films. He returned to Paramount in 1941 and starred in adventure movies. During World War II, he served as an instructor in the US Air Force.
Hearing Loss and Comeback
By the late 1940s, Arlen had almost completely lost his hearing. In 1949, a successful surgery restored his hearing, enabling him to resume his career. He starred in numerous westerns and adventure films throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Arlen also transitioned to television, guest-starring in iconic series and appearing in commercials.
Retirement and Legacy
Arlen retired from acting in the late 1960s but made occasional appearances in the following decade. His final film, "A Whale of a Tale", was released posthumously in 1977. Arlen passed away on March 28, 1976, from emphysema. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the motion picture industry.
