Full Name: Joseph Frank Keaton VI (Buster Keaton)
Date of Birth: October 4, 1895
Place of Birth: Piqua, Kansas, USA
Date of Death: February 1, 1966 (aged 70)
Occupation: Actor, Comedian, Filmmaker, Stunt Performer
Years Active: 1899–1966
Spouse(s): Natalie Talmadge (1921–1932), Mae Scriven (1933–1936), Eleanor Norris (1940–1966)
Children: 2
Early Life & Vaudeville Career
Born into a vaudeville family, Buster Keaton began performing at the age of three in his parents’ comedy act, The Three Keatons. His father would throw him across the stage, earning Keaton the nickname “The Great Stone Face” due to his ability to remain expressionless.
His early exposure to physical comedy and slapstick shaped his signature style of silent film acting.
Silent Film Stardom (1917–1928)
Keaton transitioned to film in 1917, working with Roscoe “Fatty” Arbuckle before launching his own production company. His silent films were known for:
- Daring stunts performed without special effects.
- Deadpan comedy and physical humor.
- Innovative cinematography and storytelling.
Notable Films:
- The General (1926) – Considered his masterpiece, blending comedy and action in a Civil War train chase.
- Sherlock Jr. (1924) – Groundbreaking use of special effects and film-within-a-film storytelling.
- Steamboat Bill, Jr. (1928) – Features the famous stunt where a house facade collapses around him.
Career Decline & Sound Era (1929–1940s)
With the arrival of talkies, Keaton signed with MGM, but lost creative control over his films. His later movies lacked the originality of his silent works, leading to financial struggles and alcoholism.
He worked as a gag writer for other comedians (including the Marx Brothers) and appeared in minor roles.
Comeback & Later Years (1950s–1966)
Keaton’s legacy was rediscovered in the 1950s, leading to a career revival:
- Acted in Sunset Boulevard (1950).
- Starred in the TV series The Buster Keaton Show.
- Honored with an Academy Honorary Award (1959).
- Made one final film appearance in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1966).
Personal Life
Keaton married three times, finding happiness with Eleanor Norris, who helped stabilize his life.
Legacy & Influence
- A pioneer of physical comedy, inspiring Charlie Chaplin, Jackie Chan, and modern action-comedy films.
- The General is considered one of the greatest films ever made.
- His stunt work remains unmatched in cinema history.
