John Gilbert was an American actor, screenwriter and director. He rose to fame during the silent era and became a popular leading man known as "The Great Lover". His breakthrough came in 1925 with his starring roles in The Merry Widow and The Big Parade. At the height of his career, Gilbert rivaled Rudolph Valentino as a box office draw.
Gilbert in 1931
Promotion of Ince's rising "juvenile" star in studio directory, 1916
Gilbert (center) with Barbara Bedford and unidentified actor in Gleam O'Dawn (1922)
Publicity photo for Love (1927)
The Merry Widow (1925 film)
The Merry Widow is a 1925 American silent romantic drama/black comedy film directed and written by Erich von Stroheim. Released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, the film stars Mae Murray, John Gilbert, Roy D'Arcy, and Tully Marshall, with pre-fame uncredited appearances by Joan Crawford and Clark Gable.
The Merry Widow (1925 film)
Alternate poster.