Douglas Fairbanks was an American actor, producer, and screenwriter, born on May 23, 1883. He is best known for his roles in silent films during the early 20th century, particularly in adventure and swashbuckling genres. Fairbanks starred in iconic films such as The Mark of Zorro and The Thief of Bagdad, showcasing his athleticism and charm. In addition to his acting career, Fairbanks co-founded the United Artists film studio in 1919, alongside Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and D.W. Griffith. He played a significant role in shaping the film industry and is often regarded as one of the first major movie stars. Fairbanks passed away on December 12, 1939.