Date of Birth: March 11, 1887
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Date of Death: December 31, 1980
Biography
Raoul Walsh was an American film director, screenwriter, actor, and producer, known for his significant contributions to the American film industry, particularly during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Born Albert Edward Walsh, he later changed his name to Raoul Walsh and became one of the most prolific directors in the industry, noted for his dynamic storytelling and robust action sequences. Walsh’s career spanned over five decades, beginning in the silent film era and transitioning successfully into talkies. He initially started as an actor and made his mark with a notable performance as John Wilkes Booth in D.W. Griffith’s “The Birth of a Nation” (1915). However, his true calling was behind the camera. He directed over 100 films, with some of his most acclaimed works including “The Thief of Bagdad” (1924), “White Heat” (1949), and “High Sierra” (1941). Walsh’s films often featured rugged characters and explored themes of crime, adventure, and the American frontier. His innovative techniques and compelling storytelling earned him a reputation as one of Hollywood’s legendary directors.
5 Interesting Facts about Raoul Walsh
1. Raoul Walsh lost his right eye in a car accident in 1928 and thereafter wore an eyepatch for the rest of his life.
2. He was originally cast as the lead in “In Old Arizona” (1928), a role that ultimately went to Warner Baxter after Walsh’s accident.
3. Walsh directed John Wayne in his breakout role in “The Big Trail” (1930), which was one of the first films to use widescreen technology.
4. He was a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).
5. Walsh served in the U.S. Army during World War I, where he was stationed in France.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Raoul Walsh
1. “You can’t expect the audience to believe something you don’t believe yourself.”
2. “A director must be a policeman, a midwife, a psychoanalyst, a sycophant, and a bastard.”
3. “I’ve always had a great curiosity for new gadgets and new techniques. If it works, use it!”
4. “Acting is like sex. You either do it and don’t talk about it, or you talk about it and don’t do it.”
5. “The best pictures are yet to come, and I’m still learning.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Raoul Walsh’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
Raoul Walsh had three children: 1. Jack Walsh 2. John Walsh 3. Virginia Walsh
Relevant Links
1. [Wikipedia – Raoul Walsh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raoul_Walsh
2. [IMDb – Raoul Walsh](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0909615/
3. [TCM – Raoul Walsh](http://www.tcm.com/tcmdb/person/200108%7C128734/Raoul-Walsh/
4. [AllMovie – Raoul Walsh](https://www.allmovie.com/artist/raoul-walsh-vn15410930
5. [Find a Grave – Raoul Walsh](https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/2104/raoul-walsh
