Norman Taurog's journey in the film industry began as a child actor on stage from 1907, eventually transitioning to a rather less successful career as a romantic lead. However, it was behind the camera where he found true fulfillment, having paid his dues as a prop man and editor before becoming a director.
Taurog's directing career gained momentum with the advent of sound, and he soon established himself as a specialist in light comedy. He also developed a unique affinity for working with children, often rewarding them with chocolate for good acting and earning the nickname "Uncle Norman" from them.
Taurog became the youngest-ever director to win an Oscar for his film Skippy (1931),which starred his real-life nephew Jackie Cooper. He was under contract with Paramount from 1930 to 1936, during which time he directed the successful Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch (1934) and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (1938).
After a stint with Fox, Taurog joined MGM in 1938, where he directed some of his most iconic films, including Boys Town (1938),Broadway Melody of 1940 (1940),and Presenting Lily Mars (1943). He also worked with Dean Martin and/or Jerry Lewis on a string of comedies, and directed nine films featuring Elvis Presley.
As the law of diminishing returns applied, Taurog retired in 1968, later teaching at the University of California School of Cinema and serving as a board member of the Director's Guild. Despite becoming blind towards the end of his life, Taurog continued to serve as director of the Braille Institute in Los Angeles until his final years.
