Henry Bergman

Henry Bergman (February 23, 1868 – October 22, 1946) was a remarkable American actor who left a solid mark on stage and film. His noteworthy work includes a long term association with Charlie Chaplin. Bergman's starting journey was rooted in San Francisco, California, where he was born. He performed in live theatre, exhibiting his acting talents in Henrietta in 1888 at the Hollis Street Theatre in Boston and in the touring production of The Senator in 1892 and 1893. Towards the end of the nineteenth century in 1899, Bergman stepped onto the stage of Broadway, performing with Anna Held in Papa's Wife, a musical hit at the time. Later in life, at the age 46, he made his debut in film with the L-KO Kompany in 1914, expanding his artistic reach into a new medium. In 1916, Bergman started a long association with Charlie Chaplin that would define much of his career. Starting with The Floorwalker, Bergman became an essential character actor for Chaplin while also serving various studio roles, including Assistant Director. He made appearances in many Chaplin productions, which include The Pawnshop, The Immigrant, A Dog's Life, The Gold Rush, The Circus, and City Lights. His final performance was in Modern Times as a restaurant manager. Off-screen, Bergman made his final contribution in The Great Dictator in 1940. Chaplin also helped Bergman venture into business, financing a Hollywood restaurant called 'Henry's' that fast became a hub for popular celebrities. Despite his shift to the restaurant business, Bergman maintained his association with the Chaplin Studios until his death from a heart attack in 1946. He is buried in the Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery located in Culver City, California.