John Barrymore, born John Sidney Blyth, was an American actor and performer who belonged to the famous Barrymore family of Hollywood. John, who started his career as a stage actor, eventually turned to comedy films, before transforming himself into a serious actor. His performance in ‘Hamlet’ earned him the tag of the “greatest living American tragedian.” His personal life, however, was full of tragedies. He was addicted to alcohol since the age of 14, which eventually destroyed his flourishing career. His performances in silent films such as ‘Justice,’ ‘Richard III,’ Sherlock Holmes,’ and ‘The Sea Beast,’ were mind-blowing. Before he started working in sound films, he gained the title of ‘The Great Profile’ because of his good looks. His performances in films such as ‘Grand Hotel,’ ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ The Great Profile,’ and ‘Midnight,’ were highly appreciated by critics. He was even considered to be the “foremost English-speaking actor of his time.” With time, his talent was overshadowed by his outrageous behavior and deteriorating health. He died on May 29, 1942, in Los Angeles, California.
Expand
Birth Place
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Also Known As
John Sidney Blyth
Place Of Death
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Father
Maurice Barrymore (adopted father)
Mother
Georgie Drew Barrymore (adopted mother)
Spouse(s)
1910–1917 - Katherine Corri Harris, 1920–1928 - Michael Strange, 1928–1934 - Dolores Costello, 1936–1940 - Elaine Barrie
Siblings
and Ethel (1879-1959), Lionel (1878-1954)
Children
Diana Barrymore, Dolores Ethel Mae Barrymore, John Drew Barrymore
Relative(s)
See Barrymore family