Lew Cody

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Lew Cody TCS 1.5328 (cropped)

Lew Cody (February 22, 1884 – May 31, 1934) was an American stage and film actor who appeared in numerous silent films and early talkies. He was known for his suave and sophisticated screen persona, often portraying charming villains or romantic leads.

Early Life

Lew Cody was born Louis Joseph Côté in Waterville, Maine. He was the son of French Canadian parents. Cody attended McGill University in Montreal, where he initially studied medicine before deciding to pursue a career in acting.

Career

Cody began his acting career on the stage, performing in various theatrical productions. He transitioned to film in the early 1910s, making his debut in silent films. His breakthrough role came in the 1915 film The Heart of Maryland, directed by Herbert Brenon.

Throughout the 1910s and 1920s, Cody became a popular leading man in silent films. He worked with notable directors such as Cecil B. DeMille and D.W. Griffith. Some of his notable films from this period include Don't Change Your Husband (1919), Why Change Your Wife? (1920), and Manslaughter (1922).

With the advent of sound in films, Cody successfully transitioned to talkies. He continued to work steadily in the early 1930s, appearing in films such as The Divorcee (1930) and The Big House (1930).

Personal Life

Lew Cody was married twice. His first marriage was to actress Mabel Normand in 1926, but the marriage was short-lived, and they separated soon after. His second marriage was to actress Dorothy Sebastian in 1930, and they remained together until his death.

Death

Lew Cody passed away on May 31, 1934, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 50. He was buried at Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles.

Legacy

Cody's contributions to early cinema, particularly his roles in silent films, have been recognized by film historians. His suave and debonair screen presence left a lasting impression on audiences of his time.

Selected Filmography

• The Heart of Maryland (1915)
• Don't Change Your Husband (1919)
• Why Change Your Wife? (1920)
• Manslaughter (1922)
• The Divorcee (1930)
• The Big House (1930)

See Also

• Silent film
• List of American actors
• History of film

External Links

Lew Cody on IMDb

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