Buster Keaton

Date of Birth: October 4, 1895

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: February 1, 1966

Biography

Buster Keaton, born Joseph Frank Keaton on October 4, 1895, in Piqua, Kansas, was an iconic American silent film actor, comedian, and director. Known for his deadpan expression and extraordinary physical comedy, Keaton became one of the most influential figures in the history of cinema. He began performing at a very young age in his parents’ vaudeville act and quickly gained fame for his fearless stunts and comedic timing. Keaton’s film career took off in the 1920s with a series of successful short films and features, including classics like “The General” (1926), “Sherlock Jr.” (1924), and “Steamboat Bill, Jr.” (1928). Despite the decline of silent films with the advent of talkies, Keaton continued to work in the industry, although he faced personal and professional challenges, including a battle with alcoholism. In his later years, Keaton experienced a resurgence in popularity, appearing in various television shows and receiving honors for his contributions to cinema. He passed away on February 1, 1966, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, but left behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Buster Keaton

1. Buster Keaton earned the nickname “The Great Stone Face” due to his stoic and expressionless demeanor on screen.

2. He performed many of his own stunts, some of which were incredibly dangerous and have become legendary in the world of physical comedy.

3. Keaton was awarded an honorary Academy Award in 1959 for his unique talents which brought immortal comedies to the screen.

4. Despite his fame, Keaton faced significant financial and personal struggles, including a tumultuous marriage and issues with alcoholism.

5. He was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6619 Hollywood Boulevard.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Buster Keaton

1. “Tragedy is a close-up; comedy, a long shot.”

2. “I always want the audience to out-guess me, and then I double-cross them.”

3. “I learned from the mistakes of others. I don’t think I’d ever be happy again working for somebody else.”

4. “Silence is of the gods; only monkeys chatter.”

5. “The first thing I did in the morning was to run into that damn pool and stand under the waterfall for 15 minutes. Then I felt better.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career in the 1920s, Buster Keaton’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, which would be equivalent to tens of millions in today’s dollars.