William Blaisdell
Actor
About William Blaisdell
William Blaisdell was a prominent character actor in the silent film era, known for his versatile supporting roles in numerous comedy shorts and features during the late 1910s and early 1920s. Born in 1865, Blaisdell began his film career relatively late in life at the age of 52, quickly establishing himself as a reliable character actor who could play various types, often as authority figures, businessmen, or comic foils to the leading stars. He appeared in dozens of films between 1917 and 1926, working with many of the era's top comedy stars and appearing in popular series shorts. Blaisdell had a distinctive appearance with his bald head and mustache, making him instantly recognizable to audiences of the time. His film career came to an end with the transition to sound films, as was common for many silent era character actors. Blaisdell passed away in 1931, leaving behind a substantial body of work that exemplifies the supporting character actor's crucial role in silent film comedy.
The Craft
On Screen
Blaisdell was known for his straightforward, naturalistic acting style that served as an effective counterpoint to the more exaggerated performances of comedy stars. He brought a sense of authenticity to his roles as businessmen, officials, and other authority figures, often playing them straight while chaos erupted around him. His performances were marked by subtle facial expressions and reactions that enhanced the comedic situations without overplaying them.
Milestones
- Began film career at age 52 in 1917
- Appeared in over 100 silent films
- Worked with major comedy stars of the era
- Became a recognizable character actor with distinctive appearance
- Established himself as a reliable supporting player in comedy shorts
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
William Blaisdell represents the essential yet often overlooked supporting actors who formed the backbone of silent film comedy. While never a star himself, his consistent performances across dozens of films helped create the comedic worlds that audiences loved. His work exemplifies how character actors contributed to the success of comedy series shorts, providing the necessary straight-man reactions and authentic settings that allowed the stars to shine. Blaisdell's career also illustrates the opportunities available for older actors in early Hollywood, where maturity and distinctive appearances were valued for character roles.
Lasting Legacy
William Blaisdell's legacy lies in his substantial body of work that survives as part of America's silent film heritage. Though largely forgotten by name today, his performances continue to entertain audiences who discover silent comedies, contributing to the ongoing appreciation of this golden era of filmmaking. His career serves as a testament to the importance of character actors in creating memorable films and the collaborative nature of early Hollywood comedy production.
Who They Inspired
While Blaisdell was not known to have directly mentored other actors, his work as a reliable character actor set a standard for supporting performances in comedy shorts. His ability to play straight roles effectively while enhancing comedic situations influenced how subsequent character actors approached similar roles in film comedy. His extensive filmography provides a reference for studying ensemble acting in silent era comedies.
Off Screen
William Blaisdell was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and lived a relatively private life outside of his film career. He married and had a family, though details about his personal relationships remain scarce in historical records. His late entry into films at age 52 suggests he may have had another career before entering the movie industry, possibly in theater or vaudeville, though this is not definitively documented. Blaisdell's death in 1931 came just a few years after his film career had ended, during the challenging transition period from silent to sound films.
Education
Unknown
Family
- Unknown
Did You Know?
- Began his film career at the relatively advanced age of 52
- Appeared in over 100 films during his decade-long career
- Was often typecast as businessmen, officials, and authority figures
- Had a distinctive appearance with bald head and mustache that made him instantly recognizable
- His career ended with the transition to sound films
- Worked extensively with comedy star Harold Lloyd
- Appeared in numerous popular comedy short series of the era
- Was part of the stock company at Hal Roach Studios
- Often played hotel managers, train conductors, and similar roles
- His real first name may have been William, though some sources suggest it might have been different
In Their Own Words
No documented famous quotes from William Blaisdell
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was William Blaisdell?
William Blaisdell was an American character actor who appeared in numerous silent film comedies between 1917 and 1926. He was known for playing authority figures and businessmen, often serving as the straight man to comedy stars of the era.
What films is William Blaisdell best known for?
Blaisdell appeared in over 100 silent films, with notable titles including All Aboard (1917), By the Sad Sea Waves (1917), Bliss (1917), The City Slicker (1918), and Look Pleasant, Please (1918). He worked extensively in comedy shorts, particularly at Hal Roach Studios.
When was William Blaisdell born and when did he die?
William Blaisdell was born on April 2, 1865, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and died on November 24, 1931. He began his film career at the relatively advanced age of 52.
What awards did William Blaisdell win?
William Blaisdell did not receive any major awards or nominations during his career. As a character actor in the silent era, he worked primarily in supporting roles in comedy shorts, which rarely received formal recognition during that period.
What was William Blaisdell's acting style?
Blaisdell was known for his naturalistic, straightforward acting style that provided an effective contrast to the more exaggerated performances of comedy stars. He specialized in playing authority figures straight while comedic chaos occurred around him, using subtle reactions and expressions to enhance the humor.
Learn More
Films
13 films
