Cecil B. DeMille
Early Life
Cecil Blount DeMille was born on August 12, 1881, in Ashfield, Massachusetts. His parents were Henry Churchill DeMille, a playwright and lay reader in the Episcopal Church, and Matilda Beatrice DeMille (née Samuel), who came from a family of successful merchants.
Career Beginnings
In 1900, DeMille began his career as an actor with the theatrical company of Charles Frohman. He later moved into writing and directing plays. His first play, "The Warrens of Virginia", was produced by David Belasco, a prominent theatrical producer and director.
Transition to Film
DeMille transitioned to film in 1913, when he joined the newly formed Jesse L. Lasky Feature Play Company. His first film as a director was "The Squaw Man" (1914), which was a huge success and established DeMille as a leading director in Hollywood.
Hollywood Success
DeMille's success in Hollywood continued with films such as "The Ten Commandments" (1923), "King of Kings" (1927), and "Cleopatra" (1934). His films were known for their epic scale and spectacle, and he became synonymous with the grandeur of Hollywood cinema.
Later Career and Legacy
In his later career, DeMille returned to biblical epics with films like "Samson and Delilah" (1949) and a remake of "The Ten Commandments" (1956). He passed away on January 21, 1959, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential directors in the history of cinema.
