Roy Wilson
Actor
About Roy Wilson
Roy Wilson was a specialized actor and pioneering stunt pilot of the early Hollywood era, primarily active during the transition from silent films to talkies. Born in 1902, he became part of a select group of daredevil aviators who provided the high-stakes aerial footage required for the industry's burgeoning interest in war and adventure films. His most significant contribution to cinema was his involvement in Howard Hughes's epic production 'Hell's Angels' (1930), where he not only portrayed the character 'Baldy' Maloney but also served as one of the chief stunt pilots. Wilson's career was characterized by the dangerous intersection of performance and technical skill, working alongside other legendary flyers like Frank Clarke. He appeared in several aviation-themed serials and features for studios like Universal and Pathe before his untimely death in 1932. His life and career remain a testament to the 'Golden Age' stunt performers who risked their lives to create the spectacular imagery of early flight on screen.
The Craft
On Screen
Wilson's acting was deeply integrated with his physical capabilities as a pilot, often playing rugged, secondary characters such as soldiers, flyers, or henchmen. In the early talkie era, his performances were characterized by the naturalistic grit required for high-adrenaline war dramas.
Milestones
- Served as a chief stunt pilot for Howard Hughes's 'Hell's Angels' (1930)
- Portrayed 'Baldy' Maloney in the sound version of 'Hell's Angels'
- Featured as a henchman and stunt flyer in the Universal silent film 'Won in the Clouds' (1928)
- Co-founded the Wilson Aero Corp in Burbank, California, following his success in aviation films
- Appeared in the 10-chapter Pathe aviation serial 'Eagle of the Night' (1928)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized in the San Diego Air and Space Museum Archive for his contributions to early aviation cinematography
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Roy Wilson was a key figure in the 'suicide club' of Hollywood stunt pilots who defined the visual language of aerial combat in cinema. His work on 'Hell's Angels' helped set a standard for realism and spectacle that would not be surpassed for decades. By combining the roles of actor and technician, he helped bridge the gap between behind-the-scenes danger and on-screen drama.
Lasting Legacy
Wilson's legacy is preserved in the breathtaking dogfight sequences of 'Hell's Angels,' which are still studied by film historians and aviation enthusiasts today. He represents the era of 'daredevil' filmmaking where the lack of safety regulations led to both incredible cinematic achievements and tragic personal costs. The Wilson Aero Corp, which he helped establish, contributed to the infrastructure of the aviation industry in Southern California.
Who They Inspired
He influenced the development of aerial cinematography by demonstrating how pilots could effectively 'act' with their aircraft to convey narrative tension. His collaboration with Howard Hughes pushed the boundaries of what was possible in independent film production.
Off Screen
Roy Wilson was part of a tight-knit community of Hollywood stunt pilots. He was closely associated with his brother (or close relative) Tave Wilson, with whom he operated an airfield and the Wilson Aero Corp in Burbank. His life was tragically cut short at the age of 30 due to the inherent risks of his profession.
Education
Trained as a professional aviator during the early years of American civil aviation.
Did You Know?
- Wilson was one of the few pilots who successfully navigated the grueling three-year production of 'Hell's Angels' without a fatal accident himself, though several colleagues died.
- He is often confused with Al Wilson, another famous stunt pilot of the era who also worked on 'Hell's Angels'.
- His company, Wilson Aero Corp, provided aircraft and pilots for many early 1930s 'B' movies.
- He died only two years after the wide release of his most famous film.
- A famous production photo exists showing him flying an S.E.5A biplane in formation with Frank Clarke.
- He appeared in 'Air Maniacs', a short film released a year after his death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Roy Wilson?
Roy Wilson was an American actor and professional stunt pilot active during the late 1920s and early 1930s. He is best known for his work in the aviation epic 'Hell's Angels' (1930).
What films is Roy Wilson best known for?
He is most famous for playing 'Baldy' Maloney in 'Hell's Angels' (1930). He also appeared in 'Won in the Clouds' (1928) and the serial 'Eagle of the Night' (1928).
When was Roy Wilson born and when did he die?
Roy Wilson was born in 1902 and died on June 25, 1932, at the age of 30.
Was Roy Wilson a real pilot?
Yes, he was a highly skilled stunt pilot who co-founded the Wilson Aero Corp. He performed many of the dangerous aerial maneuvers seen in his films.
What was Roy Wilson's role in Hell's Angels?
In 'Hell's Angels', he had a dual role: he acted as the character 'Baldy' Maloney and served as one of the primary stunt pilots for the film's famous dogfight sequences.
Learn More
Films
1 film
