Francis X. Bushman

Biography

Francis Xavier Bushman was an American actor and director born in Baltimore, Maryland, who rose to fame as a matinee idol in the silent film era, starring in nearly 200 feature films before 1920. His career began at Essanay Studios in Chicago, where he was noticed for his muscular physique, and he later worked with Metro and Vitagraph studios. Bushman's on-screen charm and physique earned him a large female following in the 1910s and early 20s. He transitioned to radio and television after the silent film era ended.