William C. DeMille

Willam C. DeMille (July 25, 1878 - March 8, 1955) was a screenwriter and film director from the silent movie era through the early 1930s. He was also a noted playwright prior to moving into film. He was born in Washington, DC, the son of playwrite and screenwriter Beatrice C. DeMille and the elder brother of the versatile Cecil B. DeMille. His education included a bachelor's degree from Columbia University followed by graduate studies at the Academy of Dramatic Arts, at schools in Germany, and a second stint at Comumbia University studying under Brander Mathews.

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July 25 - 1878 - March 8 - 1955 - Screenwriter - Film director - Silent movie - 1930s - Playwright - Washington, DC - Beatrice C. DeMille - Cecil B. DeMille - Columbia University - Academy of Dramatic Arts - Germany - Brander Mathews

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He married Peggy George, the daughter of notable economist Henry George, known for writing Progress and Poverty, in 1903 and they remained married for 26 years and had two children. After getting divorced, he subsequently married the screenwriter Clara Beranger. His children include the dance choreographer Agnes de Mille, actress Peggy George, and Richard de Mille. (The latter son was born of an affair with screenwriter Lorna Moon and adopted to prevent a scandal.)

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Henry George - 1903 - Clara Beranger - Dance choreographer - Agnes de Mille - Actress - Peggy George - Lorna Moon

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In addition to his filmmaking fame, William DeMille was also an early member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. (His brother was a founding member.) He co-hosted the 1st Academy Awards and solo-hosted the 2nd Academy Awards. He also served as the President of the Academy briefly. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located at 6101 Hollywood Blvd.

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Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences - 1st Academy Awards - 2nd Academy Awards - Hollywood Walk of Fame

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William died in 1955 while living in Playa del Ray, California.

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Playa del Ray - California

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