On this date in 1919, Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, and director D. W. Griffith launched their production/distribution company, United Artists. The four wanted more authority over their work because the establishment was trying to tighten control on actors’ salaries and creative control. (Gee, sound familiar?)
Rumor has it when the head of Metro Pictures, Richard A. Rowland, heard about the venture, he said, “The inmates are taking over the asylum.” Despite an immense struggle over the years, I’d say the inmates pretty much showed The Man what’s what. 
It’s also the birthday of:
- John Carradine (1906) – Father of David, Robert, and Keith and grandfather of Ever Carradine and Martha Plimpton
- Red Buttons (1919)
I didn’t know Martha Plimpton was his granddaughter. I remember her in a bunch of those teenager type movies!
Comment by Melissa Mc — February 5, 2008 @ 11:28 am
yes, but what about YOU?
Comment by Marianne — February 5, 2008 @ 12:58 pm
Hey, speaking of older actors…did you see the superbowl commercial that got axed that showed Mickey Rooney and his NAKED BUTT???
Comment by kacey — February 5, 2008 @ 6:57 pm
Marianne, WHAT about me? *g*
Kacey, eeew!!!
I’m glad I missed that one! 
Comment by Tori — February 5, 2008 @ 9:40 pm
My thanks! I was trying to remember who all started United Artists a couple days ago and couldn’t remember past Chaplin and Pickford.
Comment by Mandy Lancaster — February 5, 2008 @ 10:17 pm