Richard Arlen was an American actor born on September 1, 1899, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He gained fame during the silent film era and transitioned successfully into talkies. Arlen is best known for his roles in films such as Wings (1927), which won the first Academy Award for Best Picture, and The Last Flight (1931). Throughout his career, Arlen appeared in over 100 films, showcasing his versatility in various genres, including drama and adventure. He continued to work in the film industry until the late 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on early Hollywood cinema before passing away on March 28, 1976.