Henry Francis Maltby, a South African-born playwright, theatre actor, and director, had a multifaceted career that spanned decades. Before transitioning to the stage, Maltby worked as a bank clerk, which laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry.
Maltby's journey as a performer began in 1899, and he continued to tread the boards of London's West End after serving in World War I. His creative endeavors were not limited to the stage, as he also wrote or adapted numerous musical theatre works.
Throughout his career, Maltby authored approximately 50 plays, primarily focusing on light comedies and satires. Some of his notable works include "Profit and the Loss" (1917),"The Rotters" (1921),and "Just My Luck" (1933),which were later adapted into films.
Maltby's foray into film began in the early 1920s, but it wasn't until around 1934 that he started acting on screen. He quickly became renowned for his comedic impersonations of pompous or apoplectic barristers, judges, and military figures, thanks to his distinctive round-faced, chinless, and beady-eyed countenance.
Maltby's adaptability allowed him to effortlessly take on a range of personae, from doleful to mean to comedic. This versatility led to his consistent employment in various films, including Alfred Hitchcock thrillers and Will Hay farces.
Maltby continued to write film scripts and radio plays well into the 1940s. His autobiography, "Ring Up the Curtain", was published in 1950, providing a glimpse into his remarkable life and career.
As a testament to his enduring legacy, Maltby's work continues to be celebrated and admired by audiences and critics alike.
