Bernard "Ben" Turpin (September 19, 1869 â€" July 1, 1940) was an
American comedian and actor, best remembered for his work in silent
films. His trademarks were his cross-eyed appearance and adeptness at
vigorous physical comedy. Turpin worked with notable performers such
as Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy, and was a part of the Mack
Sennett studio team. He is believed to have been the first filmed
"victim" of the pie in the face gag. When sound came to films, Turpin
chose to retire, having invested profitably in real estate, although
he did do occasional cameos.Turpin was born in New Orleans, Louisiana,
on September 19, 1869, the son of a candy store owner, Ernest Turpin,
and Sarah Buckley.Turpin and his first wife, actress Carrie Lemieux,
were married in Chicago on February 18, 1907. In 1923, Mrs. Turpin
became ill with influenza, which caused the loss of her hearing.
Heartbroken, Turpin took his seriously ill wife to the Basilica of
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in Quebec, hoping she would be healed. She
eventually became an invalid, with Turpin placing his career on hold
to care for her. Carrie died on October 2, 1925. Turpin remarried on
July 8, 1926, to Babette Dietz in Los Angeles.
American comedian and actor, best remembered for his work in silent
films. His trademarks were his cross-eyed appearance and adeptness at
vigorous physical comedy. Turpin worked with notable performers such
as Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy, and was a part of the Mack
Sennett studio team. He is believed to have been the first filmed
"victim" of the pie in the face gag. When sound came to films, Turpin
chose to retire, having invested profitably in real estate, although
he did do occasional cameos.Turpin was born in New Orleans, Louisiana,
on September 19, 1869, the son of a candy store owner, Ernest Turpin,
and Sarah Buckley.Turpin and his first wife, actress Carrie Lemieux,
were married in Chicago on February 18, 1907. In 1923, Mrs. Turpin
became ill with influenza, which caused the loss of her hearing.
Heartbroken, Turpin took his seriously ill wife to the Basilica of
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in Quebec, hoping she would be healed. She
eventually became an invalid, with Turpin placing his career on hold
to care for her. Carrie died on October 2, 1925. Turpin remarried on
July 8, 1926, to Babette Dietz in Los Angeles.
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