Iconic actor Charlie Chaplin was known for his lovable tramp figure from vintage film footage. Learn more at Biography.com. Re-issued as part of Melville House’s Neversink Library, My Autobiography offers dedicated Chaplin fans and casual admirers. Comedy begins with Charlie Chaplin.
Charlie Chaplin Biography (1889 – 1977) Sir Charles Spencer ‘Charlie’ Chaplin was a versatile actor, director and music producer whose prolific entertainment career spanned over 75 years. Influential film roles included the films, The Kid (1921) and The Great Dictator (1940) “Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up, but a comedy in long-shot” – Charlie Chaplin Short bio Charlie Chaplin Chaplin was born in London, 16 April 1889, to parents who worked in the entertainment industry. At an early age, his alcoholic father passed away, and later his mother had a breakdown and was taken to an asylum. This left Charlie and his brother to fend for themselves.
Following in their parent’s footsteps, they were drawn to the musical hall, and Charlie gained a prominent reputation as a performer. In 1910, Charlie travelled to America and gained experience in the fledgeling film industry.