Will Rogers, performer:

While Will Rogers was definitely a man of his times, he remains to many a man for all times. His political and social commentary continue to be as relevant today as they were in the 1920s and 1930s. Many have forgotten, however, that Rogers was first and foremost a performer. Long before Rogers uttered his first memorable speech or penned his first famous phrase, he earned a handsome living as a vaudevillian and as a performer in the Ziegfeld Follies. He successfully made the transition to the movies, debuting in the silent film Laughing Bill Hyde in 1918. He followed his dozens of silent movies with 21 'squawkies', as he liked to call them. By 1934 he was voted the top box office draw in America, out-polling such stars as Shirley Temple. This heavily illustrated work provides a detailed look at all aspects of Will Rogers performing career, with particular emphasis on his movie work. A complete filmography is included.