Born in the esteemed city of London, England, in the year 1853, Tom Ricketts, a multifaceted and prolific actor and director, boasting an impressive 300+ credits to his name, is largely forgotten in modern times, yet his most notable claim to fame lies in the fact that he directed the inaugural motion picture shot in the iconic Hollywood setting.
Ricketts' illustrious career in the entertainment industry commenced on the London stage, where he established himself as one of the most exceptional Shakespearean actors of his era. His tireless work ethic seemed to know no bounds, as he continued to work tirelessly until just a few days before his passing in 1939.
On the fateful day of his death, Ricketts departed for work despite being afflicted with a severe cold, which unfortunately progressed into a severe case of pneumonia. His health rapidly declined, and he succumbed to his illness mere days later.
In a poignant and unfortunate twist, his wife, the talented actress Josephine Ditt, also known as Josephine Ditt, was not informed of his passing at the time; she was still grappling with the aftermath of a stroke she had suffered in December of 1938.
