Irvin Willard Cody, a dark-haired, suave American-born matinée idol of French ancestry, made a dramatic career shift after receiving favorable reviews for his performance in a school play at McGill University in Montreal. He then pursued his passion for drama at the Stanhope Wheatcroft School of Acting in New York, touring in Vaudeville and with stock companies before performing at the Winter Garden with his own troupe of players.
Cody's first appearance on screen was in short films with the Balboa Amusement Company, followed by stints with Thomas H. Ince and Mack Sennett. By 1917, he had advanced to full-length features, initially playing villains. As his popularity grew, he transitioned to starring roles as amusing rogues and debonair bon vivants in dramas and light comedies, often with a continental background.
A noted wit and sought-after speaker at Hollywood parties, Cody's pronounced French accent sometimes hindered his impact in early talkies. Despite this, he had just begun to make a mark when he unexpectedly passed away in his sleep due to heart disease.
Before his untimely death, Cody was married to the renowned silent screen comedienne Mabel Normand, who also died prematurely. Their short, unhappy union was reportedly the result of a practical joke.
