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Person Biography:
Harry Davenport, born Harold George Bryant Davenport on January 19, 1866, in New York City, was a renowned American actor who began his career on the stage at a young age. He was the son of actors Edward Loomis Davenport and Fanny (Elizabeth) Vining, and was part of an acting dynasty. With a long and storied career spanning over a century, Davenport made his film debut at the age of 70, but went on to appear in over 100 films before his death in 1949.
Early Life and Career:
Davenport took his first stage bow in 1871 in Philadelphia, and by his teenage years, he was already playing Shakespeare in stock companies. He began building his theater credits in New York, making his Broadway debut in 1894 with the musical comedy "The Voyage of Suzette". He continued to appear in musicals and dramas throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including "The Belle of New York", "In Gay Paree", and "The Rounders".
Acting Career:
Davenport's stage career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in numerous productions, including "A Country Mouse", "The Next of Kin", and "Children of Destiny". He was also a co-founder of the Actor's Equity Association, a union that aimed to protect the rights of actors.
Film Career:
Davenport made his film debut in 1914 with the silent film "Too Many Husbands", and went on to appear in over 100 films throughout his career. He worked with Vitagraph, starring in and directing a series of "Jarr Family" shorts, and appeared in films such as "Among Those Present" and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". In the 1930s and 1940s, he appeared in a number of Oscar-caliber films, including "The Life of Emile Zola", "You Can't Take It with You", and "Gone with the Wind".
Personal Life:
Davenport was married twice, first to actress Alice Shepard, with whom he had a daughter, Dorothy Davenport, and then to musical comedy star Phyllis Rankin, with whom he had three children, Kate, Edward, and Fanny. His daughter Dorothy went on to become an actress and marry the silent screen star Wallace Reid. His wife Phyllis passed away in 1934, prompting Davenport to abandon his stage pursuits and focus on his film career.
Legacy:
Davenport's legacy as a beloved actor is still celebrated today, with his numerous film and stage credits continuing to entertain audiences around the world. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to protecting the rights of actors have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
