W. C. Fields (29th January, 1880 – 25th December, 1946) was a well known American juggler, actor and comedian. W.C. Fields was behind the creation of one of the great and popular American comic personas early 20th century—a misanthrope who swayed on the edge of foolery but never quite fell in, an egotist unable to see his own failings, a lovable drunk, and a person who disliked children, dogs, and women. This persona became an integral part of Fields own identity.
This particular characterization that he depicted in various films and radio was so powerful that it was usually identified with the person himself. This facet was observed by the publicity departments at Fields's studios (Paramount and Universal) and established again by Robert Lewis Taylor's biography W.C. Fields, His Follies and Fortunes (1949).
Career and life of W.C. Fields
Fields began his career as an "eccentric juggler" in vaudeville, making appearances in the makeup of a polite "tramp": scruffy beard and shabby tuxedo, for instance. He juggled cigar boxes, hats, and a variety of other objects in what seems to have been a unique and fresh act, parts of which are reproduced in some of his films. Fields confined his act to pantomime, so he could play international theaters and overcome any language barriers. Fields toured several continents and became literally a world-class juggler and an international star.
Fields started as an "eccentric juggler" in vaudeville, appearing in the makeup of a genteel "tramp": seedy beard and shabby tuxedo, for example. He juggled hats, cigar boxes and a several other objects in what considered to have been a unique and remarkable act, parts of which are produced again in some of his noted films. W.C. Fields restricted his act to pantomime, and was able to play international theaters and get over any kind of language barrier. W.C. Fields made tour to many continents and became literally a top class juggler and entertainer.
Back in the United States, W.C. Fields found that he could draw more laughs by adding dialogue to his regular routines. His typical muttering patter and sarcastic asides were honed during this period. Soon after he starred on Broadway in Florenz Ziegfeld's noted "Ziegfeld Follies" revues. There he enthralled audiences with a wild pool skit. His trademark pool game has been reproduced in many of his films.
However, besides his brilliant acting talents, he also became a noted alcohol drinker, and many of his characters portrayed the same.
Go through the pages of alcoholabusehub.com to know more about Actors, Musicians and Other Performers who were Iconic Drinkers
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