Gordon Griffith
Actor
About Gordon Griffith
Gordon Griffith began his career as a child actor in the early 1910s, appearing in several Charlie Chaplin Keystone comedies in 1914 where he often played supporting roles alongside the iconic comedian. He gained significant recognition for playing the adult Tarzan in the 1918 film 'Tarzan of the Apes,' with his son playing young Tarzan, marking the first screen adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs' famous character. Griffith transitioned behind the camera later in his career, working as a director and producer, particularly on adventure and serial films throughout the 1920s. He continued working in the film industry through the early sound era, though his prominence diminished as the industry evolved and new stars emerged. Griffith's career spanned multiple facets of filmmaking, from acting in silent comedies to producing action serials, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability in the rapidly changing film landscape. His contributions to early cinema, particularly in bringing Tarzan to the screen for the first time, cement his place in film history as an important figure of the silent era.
The Craft
On Screen
As a child actor, Griffith displayed natural comedic timing and physical comedy skills that complemented Chaplin's style. His performance as Tarzan showcased his ability to convey emotion and physical prowess without dialogue, relying on expressive body language and facial expressions typical of silent era acting. Griffith's style was characterized by its adaptability, from comedic supporting roles to heroic adventure characters.
Milestones
- First actor to play adult Tarzan on screen in 'Tarzan of the Apes' (1918)
- Appeared in multiple Charlie Chaplin Keystone comedies (1914)
- Directed and produced numerous film serials in the 1920s
- Transitioned successfully from child actor to adult roles
- Worked behind the camera as producer and director
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Pioneer in bringing Tarzan to cinema
- Notable contributor to early Charlie Chaplin films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Gordon Griffith's portrayal of Tarzan in 1918 marked a significant milestone in cinema history, bringing one of literature's most enduring adventure heroes to the screen for the first time. This performance helped establish the template for future Tarzan adaptations and influenced the development of the adventure film genre. His work in Charlie Chaplin's early comedies contributed to the foundation of silent film comedy, working alongside one of cinema's greatest pioneers during the formative years of American cinema.
Lasting Legacy
Griffith's legacy lies primarily in his groundbreaking work as the first screen Tarzan, a role that would be played by numerous actors in subsequent decades. His transition from child actor to adult performer and later to director and producer exemplifies the versatility required in early Hollywood. His contributions to film serials helped popularize this format, which would become a staple of American cinema through the 1930s and 1940s.
Who They Inspired
Griffith influenced the adventure genre through his physical portrayal of Tarzan, setting standards for the character's screen interpretation. His work in early Chaplin films contributed to the development of silent comedy techniques. As a producer and director of serials, he helped shape the narrative structure and pacing that would define this popular format for decades.
Off Screen
Gordon Griffith married actress Corrine Parquet, and their son Gordon Griffith Jr. also became an actor, notably playing the young Tarzan opposite his father in the 1918 film. The family connection created a unique father-son dynamic in one of cinema's earliest adventure epics. Griffith remained in the film industry throughout his life, transitioning from acting to production work as his career evolved.
Education
Limited formal education, entered film industry as a child actor
Family
- Corrine Parquet (1915-1958)
Did You Know?
- Was the first actor to play the adult Tarzan on screen in 1918
- His son Gordon Griffith Jr. played the young Tarzan in the same film
- Appeared in multiple Charlie Chaplin films during Chaplin's Keystone period
- Worked as both actor and director in the same film productions
- Transitioned from child actor to adult roles successfully
- Produced and directed numerous film serials in the 1920s
- Was part of the Mack Sennett comedy troupe at Keystone
- His Tarzan film was one of the first major book-to-film adaptations
- Continued working in films through the transition to sound
- Died in Los Angeles at age 69
In Their Own Words
As a silent film actor, his quotes were primarily delivered through action and expression rather than words
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gordon Griffith?
Gordon Griffith was an American actor, director, and producer who worked during the silent film era, best known for playing the first screen Tarzan in 1918 and appearing in early Charlie Chaplin comedies.
What films is Gordon Griffith best known for?
He is best known for 'Tarzan of the Apes' (1918) where he played the adult Tarzan, and his appearances in Charlie Chaplin's Keystone comedies including 'Kid Auto Races at Venice' and 'The Fatal Mallet'.
When was Gordon Griffith born and when did he die?
Gordon Griffith was born on July 17, 1888, in Chicago, Illinois, and died on January 25, 1958, in Los Angeles, California.
What awards did Gordon Griffith win?
While Gordon Griffith didn't receive major formal awards during his era, he is recognized as a pioneer for being the first actor to portray Tarzan on screen and for his contributions to early cinema.
What was Gordon Griffith's acting style?
Griffith's acting style was typical of the silent era, emphasizing physical expression and body language. He showed versatility from comedic timing in Chaplin films to the physical prowess required for his Tarzan portrayal.
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Films
10 films
