James Pierce
Actor
About James Pierce
James H. Pierce was an American athlete-turned-actor who achieved cinematic immortality through his single most famous role as Tarzan in the 1927 silent film 'Tarzan and the Golden Lion.' Born in Indiana, Pierce excelled as a football player at Wabash College before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, where his impressive physique caught the attention of Edgar Rice Burroughs, the creator of Tarzan. Burroughs personally selected Pierce for the lead role in the film adaptation, impressed by his athletic build and natural screen presence. Pierce married Burroughs' daughter, Joan Burroughs, who co-starred as Jane in the same film, creating a unique family connection to the Tarzan legacy. Despite the promise of his debut, Pierce's acting career remained limited, with only minor roles in subsequent films throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s. After leaving Hollywood, he worked various jobs including as a physical education instructor, sheriff's deputy, and later as a security guard. His legacy remains tied to his portrayal of one of cinema's most iconic characters, though his time in the spotlight was brief.
The Craft
On Screen
Physical and athletic style typical of silent era action stars, relying more on physical presence and stunt work than nuanced performance
Milestones
- Cast as Tarzan in 'Tarzan and the Golden Lion' (1927) by Edgar Rice Burroughs himself
- Married Joan Burroughs, daughter of Tarzan's creator
- Appeared in minor roles in several silent films throughout the late 1920s
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized as one of the earliest actors to portray Tarzan on film
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
James Pierce's portrayal of Tarzan represents an important early chapter in the character's cinematic history, being among the first actors to bring Edgar Rice Burroughs' creation to life on screen. His casting by Burroughs himself added authenticity to the production and set a precedent for the physical requirements of the role. Though his career was brief, Pierce's contribution helped establish the visual template for Tarzan that would influence subsequent portrayals for decades.
Lasting Legacy
James Pierce's legacy is primarily defined by his single but significant portrayal of Tarzan, making him part of the select group of actors who have embodied one of literature's most enduring characters. His marriage into the Burroughs family created a unique personal connection to the Tarzan mythos that no other Tarzan actor can claim. While not a major star, his place in cinema history is secured through this iconic role and the fascinating circumstances surrounding his casting.
Who They Inspired
Pierce's athletic approach to the Tarzan role influenced the physical requirements for future actors in the part, emphasizing the need for genuine athletic ability over theatrical training. His selection by the character's creator set a precedent for authenticity in casting that would influence future adaptations of literary works.
Off Screen
James Pierce led a varied life beyond his brief Hollywood career. After his acting days, he worked as a physical education instructor, sheriff's deputy, and security guard. His most significant personal connection was through marriage to Joan Burroughs, which linked him directly to the Tarzan literary legacy. The couple remained married until Joan's death in 1972, two years after James's own passing.
Education
Wabash College, University of California, Berkeley
Family
- Joan Burroughs (1928-1970)
Did You Know?
- Was discovered by Edgar Rice Burroughs at a party where his athletic build impressed the author
- Was a star football player at both Wabash College and UC Berkeley
- His wife Joan Burroughs not only co-starred with him as Jane but was also the daughter of Tarzan's creator
- Was personally chosen for the Tarzan role over more established actors
- Worked as a sheriff's deputy after his acting career ended
- His portrayal was one of the earliest sound-era versions of Tarzan, though the film was released as a silent
- Stood 6'2" tall with a muscular build that made him ideal for the role
- The film 'Tarzan and the Golden Lion' was shot partially on location in Guatemala
- After leaving Hollywood, he worked as a security guard at a naval base
- His casting marked one of the first times a literary creator had direct input in choosing the actor for their character
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was James Pierce?
James Pierce was an American actor and former football player who is best known for playing Tarzan in the 1927 silent film 'Tarzan and the Golden Lion.' He was personally selected for the role by Edgar Rice Burroughs, the creator of Tarzan, and later married Burroughs' daughter Joan.
What films is James Pierce best known for?
James Pierce is primarily known for his starring role as Tarzan in 'Tarzan and the Golden Lion' (1927). He also appeared in minor roles in several other silent films throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s, but none achieved the same recognition as his Tarzan performance.
When was James Pierce born and when did he die?
James Pierce was born on August 8, 1900, in Freedom, Indiana, and died on December 11, 1970, in San Diego, California, at the age of 70.
What awards did James Pierce win?
James Pierce did not receive any major formal awards or nominations for his acting work. His recognition comes primarily from his place in cinema history as one of the earliest actors to portray Tarzan on film.
What was James Pierce's acting style?
Pierce's acting style was typical of silent era action stars, emphasizing physical presence, athleticism, and stunt work over subtle dramatic performance. His background as a football player made him particularly suited to the physical demands of the Tarzan role.
How was James Pierce discovered for acting?
James Pierce was discovered by Edgar Rice Burroughs at a social gathering where Burroughs was impressed by Pierce's athletic physique and bearing. Burroughs personally selected him for the Tarzan role over more established actors.
What was James Pierce's connection to the Tarzan legacy?
Beyond playing Tarzan, Pierce married Joan Burroughs, the daughter of Tarzan creator Edgar Rice Burroughs, who also played Jane opposite him. This made him part of the Tarzan creator's actual family, a unique distinction among Tarzan actors.
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Films
1 film
