Raymond Griffith, a renowned silent movie comedian, embarked on a multifaceted career that spanned both in front of and behind the camera. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Griffith's life took an unexpected turn at an early age, as he lost his voice, forcing him to speak in a distinctive hoarse whisper for the remainder of his life.
There are differing accounts regarding the cause of his voice loss, with Griffith attributing it to his experiences as a child actor in stage melodramas, where he would scream at the top of his lungs every night. Others, however, suggest that a childhood disease was more likely responsible.
Despite his relatively limited recognition today, Griffith's starring feature films are considered classics by some, with many having unfortunately been lost over time. One of his most well-known films is the 1926 Civil War comedy feature, Hands Up!, directed by Clarence G. Badger and co-starring Mack Swain, which was inducted into the National Film Registry in 2005.
Another notable film, Paths to Paradise, a caper film directed by Badger, is considered a classic, although it is missing its final reel in all circulating prints. Griffith's signature costume, a traditional top hat, white tie, and tails, was often complemented by a cape and/or walking stick, a nod to the era's comedic conventions.
The advent of sound marked the end of Griffith's acting career, but he did make one memorable appearance in the 1930 Lewis Milestone film All Quiet on the Western Front, playing a French soldier killed by Lew Ayres. Following his retirement from acting, Griffith transitioned to a writing and producing career at Twentieth Century Fox.
Tragically, Griffith's life came to a sudden end on November 25, 1957, when he choked to death at the Masquers Club in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 62.
