Ben Turpin

Common card · No. 400812

Bernard "Ben" Turpin (September 19, 1869 – July 1, 1940) was an American comedian and actor, best remembered for his work in silent films. His trademarks were his cross-eyed appearance and adeptness at vigorous physical comedy. A sometime vaudeville performer, he was "discovered" for film while working as the janitor for Essanay Studios in Chicago. Turpin went on to work with notable performers such as Charlie Chaplin, W.C Fields, Wheeler and Woolsey, and Laurel and Hardy. He also became a part of the Mack Sennett studio team. He is believed to have been the first filmed "victim" of the pie in the face gag, in "Mr Flip"(1909). When sound came to films in 1929, Turpin, who had invested profitably in real estate, chose to retire, although he continued to make occasional cameo appearances.

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