Matthew "Stymie" Beard

Matthew Beard, Jr. (January 1, 1925 – January 8, 1981) was an African-American child actor, most famous for portraying the character of Stymie in the Our Gang short films from 1930 to 1935. In contrast to the character he replaced, Farina, Stymie was a slick-tongued con-artist who was always self-assured, nonchalant, and ready with a sly comment. The character's trademark was a bald head crowned by an oversize derby hat, a gift to Beard from comedian Stan Laurel, who had also worked under Our Gang creator Hal Roach.

Related Topics:
January 1 - 1925 - January 8 - 1981 - African-American - Child actor - Our Gang - Short film - 1930 - 1935 - Farina - Derby hat - Stan Laurel - Hal Roach

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