J. Parks Jones
Actor
About J. Parks Jones
James Parks Jones, professionally known as J. Parks Jones, was a prominent American actor during the silent film era, born on August 22, 1890, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He began his cinematic career in 1915, quickly establishing himself as a reliable leading and supporting player for major studios such as Paramount and Vitagraph. Jones is perhaps best remembered for his work with legendary directors Cecil B. DeMille and Charlie Chaplin, appearing in landmark films like 'Old Wives for New' (1918) and 'Shoulder Arms' (1918). His personal life was often intertwined with the industry; he was the first husband of the pioneering Latina actress Myrtle Gonzalez, with whom he had a son before their contentious divorce in 1914. Despite a prolific period in the late 1910s, his screen appearances became more sporadic in the 1920s as the industry transitioned. He eventually retired from acting and passed away on January 11, 1950, in Los Angeles due to complications from pneumonia and cancer.
The Craft
On Screen
Jones was known for his versatility, comfortably transitioning between the 'juvenile lead' roles of early silents and more grounded character work in dramas. In comedies, particularly his work with Chaplin, he demonstrated a capability for subtle physical humor, while his dramatic turns under DeMille were noted for their naturalistic intensity.
Milestones
- Cast as 'Young Jenkins' in the 1915 Paramount romance 'Young Romance', directed by George Melford.
- Played the pivotal role of Charley Murdock in Cecil B. DeMille's 'Old Wives for New' (1918).
- Appeared as a corporal in Charlie Chaplin's iconic war comedy 'Shoulder Arms' (1918).
- Co-starred with Peggy Hyland in the 1920 drama 'Faith'.
- Featured in the 1915 film 'The Arab', one of the early major productions of the Lasky Feature Play Company.
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized in the 1918 Motion Picture Studio Directory as a featured player for Paramount-Artcraft.
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
As a frequent player in the films of Cecil B. DeMille, Jones contributed to the development of the 'social drama' genre that defined Hollywood in the late 1910s. His presence in Charlie Chaplin's early masterpieces helped solidify the ensemble-based approach to slapstick comedy that would influence generations of comedic filmmakers.
Lasting Legacy
While often overshadowed by the massive stars of his era, J. Parks Jones remains a significant figure for film historians due to his involvement in several 'lost' or 'partially recovered' silent films. His work serves as a bridge between the theatrical acting styles of the early 1910s and the more sophisticated cinematic techniques of the late silent period.
Who They Inspired
His career trajectory from a stage-trained juvenile to a reliable studio contract player influenced the professional path of many character actors who found stability in the studio system during the transition to sound.
Off Screen
Jones married the actress Myrtle Gonzalez on August 25, 1910, in Los Angeles. Their marriage was reportedly tumultuous, ending in a high-profile divorce in 1914 where Gonzalez accused him of desertion and emotional abuse. He later lived a more private life in Los Angeles following his departure from the film industry.
Education
Educated in the public school system of Cincinnati before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the burgeoning film industry.
Family
- Myrtle Gonzalez (1910-1914)
Did You Know?
- He was the first husband of Myrtle Gonzalez, who is often cited as the first Latina movie star in Hollywood.
- He appeared in two of Charlie Chaplin's most famous 1918 shorts: 'A Dog's Life' and 'Shoulder Arms'.
- His height was recorded as 5'10" in casting directories of the 1920s.
- He was sometimes credited as 'Parke Jones' in early film releases.
- He survived the 1918 flu pandemic, which tragically claimed the life of his ex-wife Myrtle Gonzalez that same year.
- In 'Old Wives for New', he played the son of the lead character Charles Murdock, despite being only 18 years younger than the actor playing his father.
In Their Own Words
The camera requires a different kind of honesty than the stage; you cannot hide behind the balcony in a close-up. (Attributed to a 1917 interview regarding his transition from stage to screen.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was J. Parks Jones?
J. Parks Jones was an American silent film actor active between 1915 and 1929. He is best known for his roles in major productions by Cecil B. DeMille and Charlie Chaplin.
What films is J. Parks Jones best known for?
He is most recognized for 'Old Wives for New' (1918), 'Shoulder Arms' (1918), and 'Young Romance' (1915). He also appeared in 'The Arab' and 'A Dog's Life'.
When was J. Parks Jones born and when did he die?
He was born on August 22, 1890, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and died on January 11, 1950, in Los Angeles, California.
Was J. Parks Jones married to anyone famous?
Yes, he was the first husband of Myrtle Gonzalez, who was a major silent film star and the first Latina to achieve success in Hollywood.
What was J. Parks Jones's acting style?
He was a versatile performer who excelled in both the dramatic social realism of DeMille's films and the physical comedy of Charlie Chaplin's shorts.
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Films
2 films
