Will Rogers

Date of Birth: November 4, 1879

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: August 15, 1935

Biography

William Penn Adair Rogers, commonly known as Will Rogers, was an American stage and film actor, vaudeville performer, cowboy, humorist, newspaper columnist, and social commentator from Oklahoma. Born on November 4, 1879, in the Cherokee Nation, Indian Territory (now part of Oklahoma), Rogers grew up on a ranch and learned to ride and lasso at an early age. His talents with a lasso led him to perform in Wild West shows and vaudeville circuits, eventually making his way to Broadway. Rogers transitioned to the silver screen in the silent film era and later into “talkies,” becoming one of the highest-paid actors of his time. With a keen wit and a folksy style, he became a beloved public figure, using humor to comment on social issues and politics. Rogers wrote a syndicated newspaper column and hosted a popular radio show, further cementing his place in American culture. He tragically died in a plane crash on August 15, 1935, in Point Barrow, Alaska, along with aviator Wiley Post. Despite his untimely death, Rogers left behind a legacy of humor, wisdom, and a deep connection with the American people.

5 Interesting Facts about Will Rogers

1. Will Rogers was part Cherokee and often highlighted his Native American heritage in his performances.

2. He appeared in 71 films, including 50 silent films and 21 “talkies.”

3. Rogers was a close friend of aviator Wiley Post, with whom he died in a plane crash.

4. He was a prolific writer, authoring six books and over 4,000 newspaper columns.

5. Rogers was known for his adage, “I never met a man I didn’t like,” reflecting his genial personality.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Will Rogers

1. “I never met a man I didn’t like.”

2. “Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.”

3. “Diplomacy is the art of saying ‘Nice doggie’ until you can find a rock.”

4. “Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.”

5. “The only difference between death and taxes is that death doesn’t get worse every time Congress meets.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Will Rogers’ net worth was estimated to be around $2.5 million, a substantial amount during the 1930s.

Children

Will Rogers had four children with his wife, Betty Blake: 1. Will Rogers Jr. (1911–1993) – Became a World War II hero, journalist, and U.S. Congressman. 2. Mary Amelia Rogers (1913–1989) – Known as Mary Rogers, she managed the family ranch and was involved in various charitable activities. 3. James Blake Rogers (1915–2000) – Known as Jim Rogers, he was a rancher and horse breeder. 4. Fred Stone Rogers (1918–1920) – Tragically died of diphtheria at the age of two.