Charles 'Chic' Sale
Actor
About Charles 'Chic' Sale
Charles 'Chic' Sale was an American actor, comedian, and playwright who became one of the most beloved character actors of the silent and early sound era. Born in Urbana, Illinois, Sale began his career in vaudeville where he developed his signature character 'Old Joel,' a comical rural old man that would become his trademark throughout his film career. He transitioned to films in the 1910s, appearing in numerous silent comedies and dramas where his ability to portray elderly characters with authenticity and humor made him a distinctive presence. Sale authored the popular book 'The Specialist' in 1929, a humorous guide to outhouse construction that became a bestseller and was later adapted into a film. His career flourished during the transition to sound films, where his distinctive voice and comedic timing enhanced his already established screen persona. Despite his relatively short career, Sale left an indelible mark on early American cinema with his memorable characterizations and contributed significantly to the development of rural comedy in film. He continued working until his death in 1936, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most reliable and beloved character actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Specialized in portraying elderly rural characters with authentic mannerisms, distinctive voice work, and a unique blend of humor and pathos. His performances were characterized by his ability to transform himself physically and vocally into much older characters, often playing patriarchal figures with a twinkle in his eye and a folksy wisdom.
Milestones
- Created and perfected the 'Old Joel' character in vaudeville
- Authored the bestselling book 'The Specialist' (1929)
- Starred in the film adaptation of 'The Specialist' (1930)
- Became one of Hollywood's most recognizable character actors
- Successfully transitioned from silent films to talkies
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (located at 6301 Hollywood Blvd)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Charles 'Chic' Sale significantly influenced American popular culture through his portrayal of rural characters that resonated with audiences during the transition from rural to urban America. His 'Old Joel' character became an archetype in American comedy, representing the wise but eccentric country elder. His book 'The Specialist' entered the American lexicon, with the term 'Chic Sale' becoming slang for an outhouse in many regions, demonstrating his lasting impact on popular language and culture.
Lasting Legacy
Sale's legacy lives on through his contributions to American comedy and his influence on subsequent generations of character actors specializing in rural roles. His ability to create authentic, memorable characters set a standard for character acting in early Hollywood. The preservation of his films continues to showcase his unique talent to modern audiences interested in classic American cinema.
Who They Inspired
Sale's distinctive approach to character acting influenced numerous performers who followed, particularly those specializing in rural and elderly roles. His success in both vaudeville and film demonstrated the viability of stage-trained performers in the new medium of cinema. His work helped establish rural comedy as a significant genre in American film, paving the way for later performers like Will Rogers and the Clampett family.
Off Screen
Charles Sale married Mary Louise Dunn in 1908, and they remained together until his death. He was known as a devoted family man who maintained a relatively private personal life despite his public fame. His death at age 50 was due to complications from a heart condition, cutting short a still-thriving career.
Education
Limited formal education, primarily self-taught through vaudeville experience
Family
- Mary Louise Dunn (1908-1936)
Did You Know?
- The nickname 'Chic' came from his childhood and was used throughout his professional career
- His book 'The Specialist' sold over 200,000 copies and was considered a bestseller in its time
- The term 'Chic Sale' became slang for an outhouse in many parts of America
- He often played characters much older than his actual age, sometimes portraying men in their 70s and 80s while in his 30s and 40s
- Despite his fame, he remained humble and often returned to perform in small venues in his hometown
- His distinctive voice and mannerisms made him one of the few silent actors who successfully transitioned to sound films
- He was known for his meticulous preparation for roles, often spending weeks studying elderly people's mannerisms
- His final film 'The Big Show' was released posthumously in 1936
- He was a Freemason and active in various charitable organizations
- His character 'Old Joel' was so popular that it spawned merchandise and toys during the height of his fame
In Their Own Words
I've been playing old men since I was young enough to know better
The secret to comedy is not in what you say, but how you say it - especially if you're supposed to be saying it without teeth
An actor is never too old to play young, but sometimes he's too young to play old - unless he's me
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Charles 'Chic' Sale?
Charles 'Chic' Sale was an American actor, comedian, and playwright who became famous for portraying elderly rural characters in silent and early sound films. He was particularly known for his 'Old Joel' character and authored the bestselling book 'The Specialist' in 1929.
What films is Charles 'Chic' Sale best known for?
Sale is best known for 'The Specialist' (1930), 'The County Fair' (1932), 'The Trail of '98' (1928), and his final film 'The Big Show' (1936). These films showcased his signature style of playing elderly rural characters with humor and authenticity.
When was Charles 'Chic' Sale born and when did he die?
Charles 'Chic' Sale was born on August 24, 1885, in Urbana, Illinois, and died on May 7, 1936, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 50 from heart complications.
What awards did Charles 'Chic' Sale win?
While Sale didn't receive major film awards during his career, he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame located at 6301 Hollywood Blvd, recognizing his significant contributions to American cinema.
What was Charles 'Chic' Sale's acting style?
Sale specialized in portraying elderly rural characters with authentic mannerisms and a distinctive voice. His acting style combined physical transformation with folksy humor, often playing patriarchal figures with wisdom and eccentricity that resonated with audiences of his era.
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Films
1 film
