Skeletal, lugubrious, latterly prune-faced British character actor, in films from 1921. Started as a comedian and monologist in music halls. Popular on screen as a master of disguise, which allowed him to slip into just about any ethnic part or Dickensian role. Equally comfortable as sneering villain, dour undertaker or canny detective. Had a rare leading role as sleuth J.G.Reeder in Edgar Wallace's Mystery of Room 13 (1938).