Fred McPherson
Actor
About Fred McPherson
Fred McPherson was an American actor who appeared during the silent film era, known primarily for his role in the 1920 Harold Lloyd comedy short 'Get Out and Get Under.' His career appears to have been brief, with documented activity confined to the year 1920. Like many supporting actors of the silent era, McPherson likely worked in various capacities within the burgeoning Hollywood studio system, potentially appearing in uncredited roles or as an extra in other productions that may not have been fully documented. The film industry of the early 1920s was rapidly expanding, and countless actors contributed to the medium's development, many of whom left only minimal traces in historical records. McPherson's participation in 'Get Out and Get Under' places him within the context of early American comedy cinema, working alongside one of the era's most significant comic stars. Unfortunately, detailed information about his life, career trajectory, and other potential film work remains scarce, a common challenge for researchers studying bit players and supporting actors from this period.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in Harold Lloyd's 'Get Out and Get Under' (1920)
Best Known For
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Fred McPherson's contribution to cinema, while minimal in scope, represents the collective effort of countless actors who helped shape the silent film era. As a participant in Harold Lloyd's work, he was part of the machinery that created some of early cinema's most enduring comedy. His appearance in 'Get Out and Get Under' places him within the important tradition of American slapstick comedy that would influence generations of filmmakers and performers. While his individual impact may be difficult to trace, actors like McPherson formed the essential foundation upon which star performances were built, providing the necessary support and context for the leading actors of their time.
Lasting Legacy
Fred McPherson's legacy is primarily preserved through his appearance in 'Get Out and Get Under,' a film that survives as part of Harold Lloyd's body of work and continues to be studied by film historians and enthusiasts of silent comedy. While he may not have achieved lasting fame, his contribution to this classic comedy short ensures his place, however small, in the annals of film history. The preservation of silent films has allowed even minor performers to be remembered and appreciated by modern audiences, highlighting the collaborative nature of filmmaking even in its earliest days.
Who They Inspired
As a supporting actor with only one documented credit, Fred McPherson's direct influence on subsequent performers or filmmakers is difficult to trace. However, like all participants in the early film industry, he contributed to the development of cinematic techniques and performance styles that would evolve throughout the 20th century. His work in the context of Harold Lloyd's productions places him within an influential comedic tradition that would shape American comedy for decades to come.
Off Screen
Very little is documented about Fred McPherson's personal life, which is typical for many supporting actors from the silent era whose biographical details were not preserved in historical records.
Did You Know?
- Appeared in 'Get Out and Get Under' during the same year that the film industry was transitioning from short films to feature-length productions
- Worked during the golden age of silent comedy when stars like Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Harold Lloyd were defining the genre
- The film he appeared in was directed by Hal Roach, who would become one of Hollywood's most successful comedy producers
- 1920, the year of his only known film credit, was during the early days of Hollywood's establishment as the center of American film production
- Supporting actors like McPherson often worked multiple roles within a single production or appeared in numerous films without credit
- The preservation of 'Get Out and Get Under' has allowed his performance to survive for over a century
- Many actors from this period were stage performers who transitioned to the new medium of motion pictures
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Fred McPherson?
Fred McPherson was an American actor from the silent film era, known primarily for his appearance in Harold Lloyd's 1920 comedy short 'Get Out and Get Under.' His career appears to have been brief, with documented activity confined to the year 1920.
What films is Fred McPherson best known for?
Fred McPherson is known for his role in 'Get Out and Get Under' (1920), a Harold Lloyd comedy short that has become a classic of silent cinema. This appears to be his only documented film credit.
When was Fred McPherson born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Fred McPherson are not documented in available historical records, which is common for many supporting actors from the silent era whose biographical details were not preserved.
What awards did Fred McPherson win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Fred McPherson, which is typical for many supporting actors of the silent era who worked behind the scenes in smaller roles.
What was Fred McPherson's acting style?
While specific details about Fred McPherson's acting style are not documented, his work in a Harold Lloyd comedy suggests he was likely proficient in the physical comedy and expressive performance techniques required for silent film.
Did Fred McPherson work with other famous actors?
Fred McPherson worked with Harold Lloyd, one of the most influential comedy stars of the silent era, in 'Get Out and Get Under.' The film was produced by Hal Roach Studios, a major comedy production company of the time.
Why is so little known about Fred McPherson?
Limited documentation about Fred McPherson is typical for many supporting actors from the silent era, as studios focused publicity on stars and detailed records for bit players were often not preserved. Many such actors left only minimal traces in film history.
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Films
1 film
