Prolific, popular character player who began his career on the stage and, between 1915 and 1919, starred in numerous westerns for Essanay Studio. The portly, distinguished-looking actor returned to films in the sound era, first in crime melodramas, then as a priest in "The White Sister" and a sheik in "The Barbarian" (both 1933) before finding his special niche portraying all kinds of tycoons: as an alcoholic millionaire ("Sadie McKee" 1934), a lumber tycoon ("Come and Get It" 1936) and a sinister munitions king ("Idiot's Delight" 1939). Despite being middle-aged and heavy-set, Arnold played
Quit school at age ten to work as newsboy, errand boy, bellhop and boiler attendant at Columbia University; orphaned at age 14
Amateur theatrical debut as Lorenzo in "Merchant of Venice" at age 12 in an East Side settlement house production
1905
Professional stage debut as a bit player with Ben Greet Players in Trenton, New Jersey; changed name to Edward Arnold
Joined Maxine Elliott's acting company as juvenile lead and assistant stage manager
Hired by Essanay Studio in Chicago to replace Francis X. Bushman as a Western hero; starred in over 40 two-reelers; worked as extra with Old World Film Company in New Jersey
