Edgar Kennedy

Edgar Livingston Kennedy (1890–1948), known professionally as "Slow Burn," was an American comedic actor celebrated for his role portrayals of characters experiencing gradual frustration. Born in Monterey County, California, to Canadian parents, he began his career in boxing before transitioning to vaudeville singing. He made his film debut in 1911 and worked with prominent comedians like Roscoe Arbuckle, Charlie Chaplin, and the Marx Brothers.

Kennedy's early roles often featured villainous or threatening characters, but by the 1920s, he shifted to comedic supporting parts under producer Hal Roach. He directed several short films during this period. In the 1930s, he became famous for his "Average Man" series, depicting a blustery everyman facing domestic and professional challenges. These films showcased his slow-building anger, culminating in his iconic "slow burn" expression.

Kennedy's career included roles as cops, detectives, and frustrated individuals across various studios. Notable appearances were in *Diplomaniacs* and an instructional film about anger management titled *The Other Fellow*. He also took on unique roles, such as a puppeteer in *The Falcon Strikes Back* and a bartender in *The Sin of Harold Diddlebock*.

Kennedy's death was due to throat cancer in 1948 at the Motion Picture Hospital. His funeral was attended by notable figures from the entertainment industry, and he was buried at Holy Cross Cemetery.