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William Collier Sr.

William Collier Sr. (November 12, 1864 – January 13, 1944), born William Morenus, was an American writer, director and actor. Collier ran away from home when only 11 years old to join a touring company run by Eddie Foy and in 1879 he appeared as a juvenile in H.M.S. After a notable stage career, he tried motion pictures, under producer Mack Sennett.

Also recorded as William Collier, Sr. · Willie Collier · William Morenus · William Collier

William Collier Sr.

A scene from "Caught in the Rain," which opened June 28, 1908, at the Moore Theater, Seattle. Includes William Collier (center).

Studio of Napoleon Sarony · J. Willis Sayre Collection of Theatrical Photographs · Public domain

Name
William Collier Sr
Born
12 November 1864
Birthplace
New York City, U.S.
Birth Name
William Morenus
Died
13 January 1944
Place of death
Beverly Hills, California, U.S.
Occupation
Writer, director, actor on stage and screen
Spouse
Louise Allen (?–1909) (her death) Paula Marr (1910–?)
Nationality
United States
Honours
star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
Languages
English

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William Collier Sr. (November 12, 1864 – January 13, 1944), born William Morenus, was an American writer, director and actor. Collier ran away from home when only 11 years old to join a touring company run by Eddie Foy and in 1879 he appeared as a juvenile in H.M.S. After a notable stage career, he tried motion pictures, under producer Mack Sennett.

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Note VALÉORINE

William Collier Sr. (1864–1944) was an American actor, film actor and film director, among other activities. Born in New York City, the actor died in Beverly Hills.

Languages used include English. William Collier Sr. received star on Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Composed from admitted, traceable facts · 01 October 2026

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wikidata · Q8006994 · wikipedia · William Collier Sr.

In this article

  1. 01Biography
  2. 02Notes, references and evidence

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