Erwin Connelly (January 14, 1878 – February 12, 1931) was an American actor, known for his contributions to silent films during the 1920s. Before transitioning to a film career, Connelly was a prominent stage performer, particularly in vaudeville, where he performed alongside his wife, Jane, for seventeen years.
Early life and stage career
Erwin Connelly was born on January 14, 1878, in Chicago, Illinois. He began his career on stage, gaining popularity in the vaudeville circuit. Together with his wife, actress Jane , the couple built a solid reputation in theatrical circles over the course of nearly two decades
One of their notable performances was in the 1919 play The Tale of a Shirt at the Alhambra Theatre, New York, where Jane played a dreamy laundress and he portrayed a kind-hearted character who captured her affections.
Transition to film
After their successful stage career, they both moved to Los Angeles. Connelly signed contracts with Metro and Universal Studios, appearing in several notable films throughout the 1920s.
Jane died on October 25, 1925, bringing an end to their longstanding artistic partnership. Connelly continued his acting career in films after her death.
Death
Connelly's life and career were tragically cut short by a car accident in Los Angeles, California, on February 12, 1931.
Filmography
- The Man from Beyond (1922) – Dr. Gregory Sinclair
- Our Hospitality (1923) – Quarreling Husband
- Sherlock Jr. (1924) – The Butler
- Seven Chances (1925) – The Clergyman
- Beggar on Horseback (1925) – Mr. Cady
- When Husbands Flirt (1925) – Joe McCormick
- The Danger Girl (1926) – Henderson
- The Crown of Lies (1926) – Stage Manager
- The Blind Goddess (1926) – Chief Detective
- Kiki (1926) – Joly
- Shipwrecked (1926) – Chumbley
- The Son of the Sheik (1926) – Zouave (uncredited)
- The Winning of Barbara Worth (1926) – Pat Mooney
- The Fire Brigade (1926) – Thomas Wainright
- Rubber Tires (1927) – Pa Stack
- Cheating Cheaters (1927) – Mr. Brockton
- Under Suspicion (1930) – Darby
- Fair Warning (1931) – Morgan
Sources
- Erwin Connelly at the American Film Institute Catalog
- Erwin and Jane Connelly at Vaudeville America
- "Erwin Connelly Obituary". Variety. February 1931. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Jane Connelly & Players in Temple Theater Program". Archive.org. October 22, 1917. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and Jane Connelly in "Sweetheart"". Variety. June 24, 1911. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and Jane Connelly announced in Proctor's Theater". Bloomfield NJ Citizen. 1905–1912. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and Jane Connelly in New Orpheum Theater". Labor Clarion. 1910. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and jane Connelly to play in Fifth Avenue". Variety. June 17, 1911. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and Jane Connelly presenting "Sweethart"". Fort Wayne Sentinel. May 4, 1907. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin and Jane Connelly Performance". Vaudeville America. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Jane Connelly Obituary". Variety. October 1925. Retrieved 28 December 2024.
- "Erwin Connelly Obituary". Variety. February 1931. Retrieved 28 December 2024.