Eric Mayne

Dublin-born 'Eric Mayne' (qv) was educated at Westminster and Durham in England and spent almost thirty years on the stage in both London and his native Ireland. He had a penchant for Shakespearean roles and in later years lectured in Shakespeare at the Los Angeles University College.Mayne, with his imposing six-foot frame and beard, was tailor-made for the silent screen and invariably cast as a heavy or comic foil. After arriving in Hollywood, he became an immensely prolific, sought-after character player. He co-starred in 'Oscar Apfel' (qv)'s adventure film _The Oakdale Affair (1919)_ (qv), opposite 'Evelyn Greeley' (qv). In 'Rudolph Valentino' (qv)'s _The Conquering Power (1921)_ (qv), he enjoyed high billing as Victor Grandet and was a memorable Dr. Saulsbourg in 'Harold Lloyd' (qv)'s knock-about comedy _Dr. Jack (1922)_ (qv), the sort of role later played by 'Sig Ruman' (qv). Eric's name was high up in the credits again in the 'John Ford' (qv)-directed _Cameo Kirby (1923)_ (qv) as Colonel Randall, and there were many more roles to follow.Mayne's career declined with the advent of sound pictures, though he remained in demand as an extra and small-part supporting actor. He played several more 'doctors', notably in _East Lynne (1931)_ (qv) and the 'Victor McLaglen' (qv) comedy _Rackety Rax (1932)_ (qv), but subsequently only bit parts came his way. Mayne, nonetheless, continued in films until his death in Hollywood in February 1947.::I.S.Mowis