Allan Cavan
Actor
About Allan Cavan
Allan Cavan was a prolific American character actor whose career spanned the transition from the silent era to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Born Robert Allan Caven in Concord, California, in 1880, he began his cinematic journey around 1916 with the Sam Goldwyn Studios and eventually became a staple at major studios like Warner Bros. and Hal Roach Studios. Over a career lasting more than two decades, Cavan appeared in approximately 145 films, often portraying authoritative or professional figures such as sheriffs, ministers, and military officers. He was particularly active in the 1930s, frequently appearing in Westerns and serials that defined the B-movie landscape of the time. His versatility allowed him to move seamlessly between prestigious features and popular shorts, including the iconic 'Our Gang' series. Cavan remained a steady presence in the industry until his death in 1941, leaving behind a massive filmography that serves as a testament to the essential role of the character actor in early cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Cavan was a quintessential character actor known for his dignified and authoritative screen presence. He specialized in playing 'official' types—judges, doctors, and lawmen—utilizing a steady, reliable delivery that made him a favorite for directors needing a grounded supporting performance. His ability to adapt to both the physical comedy of silent shorts and the dialogue-heavy requirements of early talkies ensured his longevity in the industry.
Milestones
- Appeared in over 140 films during the formative years of Hollywood
- Frequent collaborator with Hal Roach Studios on classic comedy shorts
- Portrayed President Thomas Jefferson in the 1937 film 'Old Louisiana'
- Cast in the final silent 'Our Gang' short, 'Saturday's Lesson' (1929)
- Established a significant presence in the Western genre during the 1930s
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized as a prolific contributor to the Hal Roach Studios filmography
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Allan Cavan represents the 'backbone' of the studio system—the reliable character actor who provided continuity and realism to the cinematic world. While he rarely headlined a film, his presence in over 140 productions meant that he was a familiar face to millions of moviegoers during the 1920s and 30s. His participation in the 'Our Gang' series and early horror classics like 'London After Midnight' (now a lost film) connects him to some of the most culturally significant milestones of early Hollywood history.
Lasting Legacy
Cavan's legacy is preserved through his extensive filmography, which captures the evolution of the American Western and the comedy short. He is frequently cited by film historians and 'Our Gang' enthusiasts for his roles in the transition period between silent and sound films. As a character actor who worked with legends like John Wayne and Lon Chaney, he remains a subject of interest for those studying the intricate casting webs of the Golden Age.
Who They Inspired
He influenced the standard for the 'Hollywood professional'—actors who could step into any role with minimal rehearsal and deliver a convincing performance. His work in early serials helped set the archetype for the Western lawman and the authoritative father figure that would be emulated by character actors in the decades that followed.
Off Screen
Allan Cavan was the son of Averila Cavan and had a brother named Carl. He spent much of his adult life in the Hollywood area to support his busy acting career. He was known within the industry as a reliable professional, often working uncredited in larger productions while taking featured roles in smaller films.
Did You Know?
- He is often confused with actor Chris Lynton in historical records.
- He appeared in 'London After Midnight' (1927), which is one of the most famous lost films in history.
- His career began at the Sam Goldwyn Studios as early as 1916.
- He died at the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in Hollywood at the age of 60.
- He appeared in the final silent film of the 'Our Gang' series, 'Saturday's Lesson'.
- He played the historical figure Thomas Jefferson in the film 'Old Louisiana'.
- His birth name was Robert Allan Caven, but he dropped the 'Robert' and changed the spelling of his surname for his screen career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Allan Cavan?
Allan Cavan was a prolific American character actor active from 1917 to 1941. He appeared in over 140 films, ranging from silent comedy shorts to Golden Age Westerns.
What films is Allan Cavan best known for?
He is best known for his roles in 'Saturday's Lesson' (1929), 'Hong Kong Nights' (1935), 'The New Frontier' (1935), and the lost classic 'London After Midnight' (1927).
When was Allan Cavan born and when did he die?
Allan Cavan was born on March 25, 1880, in Concord, California, and passed away on January 19, 1941, in Hollywood, California.
What was Allan Cavan's acting style?
He was known for a dignified and authoritative style, frequently cast as sheriffs, ministers, and other professional figures who required a sense of gravitas.
Did Allan Cavan work in the 'Our Gang' series?
Yes, he appeared in several Hal Roach productions, most notably as a pedestrian in 'Saturday's Lesson' (1929), the final silent entry in the 'Our Gang' series.
Learn More
Films
2 films
