Richard Arlen: The Daring Aviator of Hollywood's Golden Age
The Academy Award-Winning Pilot of Wings
Richard Arlen, born Sylvanus Richard Mattimore on September 1, 1899, was an American actor of film and television, best known for his riveting performance as a pilot in the Academy Award-winning silent film
Wings (1927). This iconic role catapulted him to stardom, earning him a place in the annals of cinematic history alongside co-stars
Clara Bow, Charles "Buddy" Rogers,
Gary Cooper, El Brendel, and his second wife,
Jobyna Ralston.
A Life of Adventure and Service
Before his Hollywood career, Arlen served as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. During World War II, he took a break from acting to teach as a United States Army Air Forces flight instructor. This real-life aviator experience undoubtedly influenced his portrayal of pilots on screen, lending authenticity to his performances.
A Diverse Filmography
Arlen's film career spanned multiple genres, including science fiction, horror, and action-comedies. One of his notable roles was in the 1932 science fiction horror film
Island of Lost Souls, an adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel
The Island of Dr. Moreau, starring
Charles Laughton. In the late 1930s, Universal paired him with
Andy Devine for a series of 14 B-pictures, known as the "Aces of Action" series, which relied heavily on stock footage from larger-scale films.
Television and Later Life
In the 1950s and early 1960s, Arlen transitioned to television, guest-starring in various anthology series, including
Playhouse 90,
The Loretta Young Show, and
Crossroads. He also appeared in several westerns, such as
Lawman,
Branded, and
Wagon Train. In 1960, Arlen was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a motion pictures star at 6755 Hollywood Boulevard, recognizing his contributions to the film industry.
Personal Life and Legacy
Arlen was a longtime resident of the celebrity enclave, Toluca Lake, California. He married twice, first to
Marguerite De La Motte from 1927 to 1931, and then to Jobyna Ralston from 1927 until her death in 1967. Arlen passed away on March 28, 1976, leaving behind a legacy of adventure, service, and a remarkable body of work in film and television.
Awards and Honors
- Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960)
Trivia and Fun Facts
- Arlen's Academy Award-winning film Wings was also the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.
- In 1968, Arlen appeared as himself in an episode of Petticoat Junction, titled "Wings," a direct reference to his 1927 silent film.
FAQ
What was Richard Arlens most notable film roles?
Richard Arlen was an American actor who starred in numerous films, including Wings (1927), The Virginian (1929), and Island of Lost Souls (1932).
What were Richard Arlens early career beginnings?
Richard Arlen began his career as a laborer, later becoming a photographers model before transitioning to acting in the early 1920s.
How did Richard Arlens career evolve during the talkies era?
With the advent of sound in films, Richard Arlens career adapted, and he continued to act in talking pictures, albeit with decreased popularity.
What was Richard Arlens military service during World War II?
Richard Arlen served in the United States Army during World War II, flying combat missions and earning several decorations, including the Purple Heart.
What is Richard Arlens legacy in Hollywood history?
Richard Arlens contributions to early Hollywood, including his starring role in the first Academy Award-winning film, Wings, have cemented his place in the history of American cinema.
