Today in History

April 16, 1889

The Birth of Charlie Chaplin

The Academy Award-winning British comedy actor Charlie Chaplin was born on this day in 1889. Chaplin is one of the most notable actors and directors of cinema history. Even today his performances greatly influence Hollywood. Over a period of 65 years in the entertainment industry, he acted, directed, wrote, and produced films. His liberal political stance brought him into conflict with the militant right-wing politics of the McCarthy era, and Chaplin was accused of "un-American activities." J. Edgar Hoover, director of the FBI, kept extensive files on the actor and ended his United States residency by revoking Chaplin's re-entry visa. Exiled from the United States, Chaplin lived the rest of his life in Switzerland. He returned to the United States in 1972 to receive an Honorary Oscar, to a triumphant standing ovation. In 1975, at age 85, Chaplin was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. He died on Christmas Day, 1977.

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