Henry Byron Warner, a prominent figure in the world of cinema, is best known for his iconic portrayal of Jesus Christ in Cecil B. DeMille's 1927 film, "The King of Kings." Born on October 26, 1875, in London, England, Warner came from a family of actors, with his father, Charles Warner, and grandfather, James Warner, both being well-known English actors.
Warner's early life was marked by a desire to pursue a career in medicine, and he graduated from London University before eventually giving up his medical studies to follow in his father's footsteps and become an actor. He honed his craft by studying acting in Paris and Italy before joining his father's stock company, making his debut in the English production of "Drink."
Warner's early career in the United States began in the early 1900s, after touring the British Empire. He made his Broadway debut in the US colonial drama "Audrey" at Hoyt's Theatre on November 24, 1902, starring James O'Neill, the father of playwright Eugene O'Neill. He went on to appear in 13 more Broadway productions throughout his career.
Warner transitioned to motion pictures in the 1910s, making his debut in the Mutual short film "Harp of Tara" in 1914. He appeared in a number of films throughout the 1910s and 1920s, including the 1923 silent film "The Ten Commandments," directed by Cecil B. DeMille.
Warner's performance as Jesus in "The King of Kings" was widely praised, and he became a leading man and star in silent pictures. He continued to work in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in a number of notable films, including "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" (1936),"Lost Horizon" (1937),and "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946).
Warner's later career was marked by a shift towards supporting roles, and he appeared in a number of films throughout the 1950s, including "Sunset Boulevard" (1950) and "The Ten Commandments" (1956). His last credited role was as Amminadab in "The Ten Commandments," and he passed away on December 21, 1958, at the age of 82.
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Warner was known for his versatility and range, and he remains one of the most beloved and iconic actors of the silent era.
